Netherlands Secure Comeback Win Over India In European Leg Of FIH Pro League
The Netherlands secured the winning goal two minutes before the final whistle through Van Dam Thijs (58th minute), who also scored the equalizing goal in the 25th minute.
Captain Harmanpreet Singh converted the first penalty corner of the match in the 19th minute to give India the lead.
India began the match strongly, dominating possession with crisp passing despite the Netherlands' high press.
While the first eight minutes didn't pose any real threats to goal from either side, India got an opportunity soon after, as they won the ball in the Dutch circle.
Dilpreet Singh's reverse hit was blocked at close range by Dutch goalkeeper Maurits Visser.
At the other end, the Netherlands threatened late in the first quarter as Thierry Brinkman approached the right flank, but the Indian defense stood firm to avert the danger.
The Netherlands came out with intent in the second quarter, with Steijn van Heijningen testing Suraj Karkera in the 17th minute, but the Indian goalkeeper blocked the effort.
India responded with purpose and earned a penalty corner after Dilpreet was impeded by a stick challenge inside the circle. Captain Harmanpreet stepped up and fired a powerful, low shot to give India the lead.
As the second quarter progressed, India exhibited a tight defensive formation, but the home team managed to get the breakthrough in the 25th minute with Thijs van Dam finding the equalizer, leaving the scores at 1-1 before halftime.
As the second half began, India's strong passing game was central to proceedings, but the visitors struggled with a lack of clear scoring opportunities and shots on goal.
To break the deadlock, India attempted to bypass the midfield with long aerial balls, but the Dutch defense was up to the task.
At the other end, the Netherlands grew increasingly assertive, posing more challenges for the Indian backline, though the scores remained 1-1 after a tepid third quarter.
The Netherlands had the lion's share of possession in the final quarter, and the hosts made it count. Thijs van Dam struck again in the 58th minute, making the most of a well-placed pass into the circle. With a deft first touch to control, he followed up with a fierce strike, ensuring victory for the Netherlands.
India will face the Netherlands again on Monday in the second match of the European leg.
India played the home leg of the ongoing Pro League in Bhubaneswar earlier this year, where they amassed 15 points with five wins in eight games.
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