New Delhi: The Indian men’s hockey team produced a determined display against reigning world champions Germany but suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat in their third match of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2025-26 Rotterdam leg.
India began the contest confidently, enjoying the majority of possession and putting Germany under pressure from the opening stages. A disciplined defensive setup limited the world champions’ attacking opportunities, while India’s pressing game disrupted Germany’s rhythm throughout the first half.
The intensity increased in the second quarter as India pushed higher up the field and forced several mistakes from the opposition. Forward Abhishek came close to breaking the deadlock after a promising attacking move, but the chance went unfinished as both teams went into the break level.
India’s persistence paid off in the third quarter when they earned their first penalty corner of the match. Defender Jugraj Singh, celebrating his 100th international appearance, made the milestone even more memorable with a powerful drag-flick in the 38th minute to give India a deserved lead.
Germany attempted to respond before the end of the quarter and won a couple of penalty corners, but goalkeeper Mohith HS produced a solid performance to preserve India’s advantage heading into the final period.
The Indian side had opportunities to strengthen its lead in the closing stages through penalty corners and an open-play chance that fell to Shilanand Lakra. However, Germany gradually increased the pressure and eventually found a breakthrough in the 56th minute when Justus Weigand converted a penalty corner to level the scores.
With the match appearing destined for a draw, Germany earned another penalty corner in the dying moments. Jakob Brilla capitalised on the opportunity in the 60th minute, scoring the decisive goal to complete a dramatic comeback and hand the world champions a 2-1 victory.
Despite the defeat, India delivered an impressive performance and will now shift focus to their next Pro League fixture against the Netherlands on June 21.
