Hosts secure semifinal berth after tense penalty shootout victory.
In a match that tested the nerves of every fan at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium, the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey team showcased incredible resilience to defeat Belgium and secure a spot in the semifinals of the Junior Hockey World Cup. The hosts will now face defending champions Germany on Sunday.
The quarterfinal clash was nothing short of a thriller. While India had maintained a clean sheet throughout the league stages, the knockout pressure was evident from the start. Belgium looked determined to spoil the party, breaking India’s defensive streak in the 13th minute. Gaspard Cornez-Massant capitalized on a loose ball in the circle to fire a reverse hit past Indian goalkeeper Princedeep Singh, putting the visitors ahead.
Despite trailing, the Indian side, mentored by legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, refused to back down. They controlled possession in the third quarter, and their persistence finally paid off. Captain Rohit unleashed a lightning-fast drag-flick in the final minute of the quarter to level the score at 1-1, bringing the crowd back to life.
Momentum shifted firmly to the hosts in the 48th minute when Sharda Nand Tiwari converted another penalty corner, giving India a crucial 2-1 lead. However, the drama was far from over. Just as India looked poised to close out the game, a lapse in concentration during the final 60 seconds allowed Belgium to counterattack and equalize, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
The tie-breaker was chaotic and filled with tension. Both teams struggled initially, and the shootout saw multiple penalty strokes awarded due to fouls by the goalkeepers. It was here that Princedeep Singh truly stepped up, making a decisive save that turned the tide. Although there was a brief pause for a video review on Ankit Pal’s winning attempt, the decision went India's way, triggering wild celebrations in the stands.
While the victory was sweet, mentor PR Sreejesh noted that the team has areas to improve before facing a formidable German side in the next round. For now, however, the young Blue Colts can celebrate a hard-fought win on the world stage.
