The Indian Hockey Men’s team continued their great form in the Tokyo Olympics after beating Argentina by scoring back-to-back late goals. At the final hooter, the scoreline read India 3-1 Argentina. Here’s a look at how the game panned out: –
First Quarter: –
The game began on a positive note for India (2nd minute) with the in-form striker, Mandeep getting a free shot at the edge of the circle, however, he couldn’t convert the ball in. Juan Manuel Vivaldi the Argentine Keeper was once again put to test in the 4th minute itself when he saved Dilpreet’s close-range effort. The 9th minute bought some blues for India as Sumit received a Green Card for a mistimed tackle. The quarter ended with a failed Indian counterattack as Simranjeet missed a golden opportunity to get the lead.
Second Quarter: –
The 17th minute of the game bought the first comprehensive attempt for the Argentines when Lucas Rossi received a pass from Thomas Habif but was unable to trouble the scorers. During this part of the game, the left flank was pretty busy with the Argentines making most of their moves from that wing itself. Harmanpreet Singh India’s star attacker showed his prowess in the 24th minute when he sprinted past two defenders to take a shot on goal. However, this attempt too did not prove fruitful. 26th minute saw lesser-known Shamsher Singh gliding the ball to Mandeep upfront. Mandeep then attempted to smoke one on goal with his left, only to his and the Indians’ dismay.
Third Quarter: –
The third quarter was the one that bought ultimate glory!! Although it began (33rd minute) with a failed Indian attempt due to Matias Rey and his great defending skills, India went on to win back-to-back penalty corners!! The 43rd minute saw the first goal of the game from Varun Kumar’s stick, as he smoked a lightning-fast drag-flick in the back of the opposition net!! India won 7 PCs in this half and converted 1 of the same.
Fourth Quarter: –
The ultimate quarter saw Argentina bouncing back after converting a penalty corner in the 48th minute. This part of the game was very happening and eventful as India overturned one on-field decision and made a quick counter in the 54th minute. The 58th minute bought glory with Vivek Sagar Prasad getting his first goal and the scorecard read 2-1, India. With the game now coming to the dying minutes India won a penalty corner. It was the 59th minute of the game and Harmanpreet, clinical as ever, sealed the game for the Indians. 3-1, India!!!
With a game left against the hosts, Japan, India supposedly has now booked their berth in the quarters. They are just a victory away from the semis and from bringing home a medal.