Indian men’s hockey team on Tuesday beat Argentina 2-1 to improve its chances of qualifying for the Olympics quarter finals after 36 years.
India scored first goal after they converted their second penalty corner as Chinglensana found the back of the net with a powerful strike.
India’s second goal came when Kothajit found the loose ball to smash it in the net.
Last time India reached quarter final stage was in 1980 Moscow Olympics, when it won the Gold medal.
India continued to dominate the game for three quarters. But it was in the fourth quarter when Argentina scored to narrow India’s lead. At one point, it appeared that India may not be able to maintain its lead as Argentina earned several back-to-penalties. But, they simply couldn’t convert them into a goal.
This victory against Argentina assumes significance as four years ago, they had qualified but finished last.
PR Sreejesh captained side, who won a historic silver in the Champions Trophy, will eye redemption for London debacle whenthey begin their campaign against Ireland in a potentially tricky encounter at the Olympic Hockey Stadium in Deodoro.
India’s next two games are against Canada and Netherlands. India’s opening game against Germany had ended in a defeat. With this win India has climbed to second in the group.
More to come