Harmanpreet Singh Leads India to 2-1 Victory Over England in FIH Pro League Finale
The Indian men’s hockey team capped off their home leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25 in style, defeating world No. 3 England 2-1 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday.
In a match filled with high-intensity action, India, ranked fifth in the FIH world rankings, rode on a brace from their inspirational captain Harmanpreet Singh (26’, 33’), while England’s Conor Williamson (30’) was the lone scorer for the visitors.
This victory not only helped India avenge their 3-2 loss to England from the previous day but also propelled them to third place in the FIH Pro League standings as they gear up for their next assignment in Amsterdam against the Netherlands and Argentina in June.
A Tactical Battle in the Opening Half
Coming into the match, England carried momentum from their thrilling 3-2 victory over India on Monday, but Craig Fulton’s men were determined to turn things around. The opening quarter saw both teams testing each other’s defensive setup, with India displaying early attacking intent but struggling to find precision in the final third.
The second quarter saw a surge in India’s offensive play. In the 20th minute, midfielder Abhishek showcased remarkable stickwork, weaving past three defenders before delivering a crisp cross into the circle. However, forward Sukhjeet Singh failed to connect cleanly from close range.
India’s persistence nearly paid off minutes later when Abhishek found himself in another promising position inside the circle but dragged his shot wide. Meanwhile, England’s well-organized defence and goalkeeper Oliver Payne kept India at bay.
Harmanpreet’s Thunderous Strike Puts India Ahead
In the 24th minute, India faced a setback when defender Jugraj Singh was shown a yellow card for a foul on Jacob Payton, temporarily reducing the team to 10 men. Despite being a man down, India maintained their attacking approach.
Two minutes later, Hardik Singh used his 3D skills to win India’s first penalty corner of the match. Harmanpreet Singh, one of the world’s best drag-flickers, stepped up and unleashed a powerful flick down the center, beating Payne to give India a 1-0 lead.
England Strike Back, but Harmanpreet Delivers Again
England, known for their resilience, responded swiftly. In the 30th minute, Harmanpreet was penalized for a tackle on Payton inside the circle, leading to a penalty stroke. England’s captain Conor Williamson calmly slotted the ball past Suraj Karkera, bringing the visitors back on level terms at 1-1 heading into halftime.
The home crowd at Kalinga Hockey Stadium didn’t have to wait long for another moment of brilliance. Just three minutes into the third quarter, India won their second penalty corner, and once again, Harmanpreet Singh stepped up.
This time, the Indian captain generated immense power, sending his drag-flick swerving into the top right corner, leaving Payne helpless and restoring India’s lead at 2-1 in the 33rd minute. The stadium erupted in celebration as India seized back the momentum.
India’s Defensive Discipline Seals the Win
With England trailing, they upped the ante in the final quarter, pressing forward in search of an equalizer. In the 48th minute, they won a crucial penalty corner, but India’s goalkeeper Suraj Karkera pulled off a stunning save to deny Sam Ward, keeping the hosts in the lead.
Moments later, India nearly extended their advantage when Hardik Singh delivered a lofted pass into the circle, but Payne was quick off his line to clear the danger.
As the clock wound down, England made a bold tactical move, pulling their goalkeeper with three minutes remaining to add an extra outfield player. However, India’s disciplined defensive unit stood firm, blocking England’s attacking forays and ensuring they held on for a well-earned 2-1 victory.
What This Means for India
This win marked India’s fifth victory in their home leg of the FIH Pro League 2024-25, wrapping up their campaign with a record of five wins and three losses. The result propelled them to third place in the Pro League standings, an encouraging position ahead of their next set of matches in Amsterdam.
Meanwhile, England remain at the top of the table despite the defeat, leading Belgium on goal difference.
What’s Next?
With the Bhubaneswar leg of the Pro League now complete, India will shift focus to their European tour in June, where they will face the Netherlands and Argentina in Amsterdam. The tournament will continue until mid-2025, with all teams vying for crucial points to secure their place in the final stages.
For England, the journey in the FIH Pro League continues in London in June, where they will host Germany, the Netherlands, and Australia in a set of high-stakes encounters.
Final Thoughts
This thrilling encounter between two of the world’s top teams showcased the intensity and excitement of international hockey. India’s resilience, strategic execution, and Harmanpreet Singh’s brilliance proved to be the difference, setting the stage for an exciting remainder of the Pro League season.
The victory in Bhubaneswar was a fitting conclusion to India’s home campaign, reinforcing their credentials as a team capable of competing at the highest level. As they now set their sights on European challenges, Indian hockey fans will be eager to see their team build on this momentum and push for the Pro League title.