Sultan Azlan Shah Cup: India loses 2-3 to Belgium despite late comeback
The Indian men’s hockey team suffered a narrow 2-3 defeat to Belgium in a rain-affected rescheduled fixture at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on Tuesday. Abhishek and Shilanand Lakra scored for India, while Roman Duvekot struck twice and Nicolas De Kerpel added one for Belgium.
India began with discipline off the ball and dealt well with early Belgian pressure, including two Penalty Corners in the opening quarter. Goalkeeper Pawan produced key saves as India gradually found more control.
Belgium took the lead in the 17th minute when Duvekot capitalised on a turnover to beat Pawan. India briefly thought it had equalised through Dilpreet Singh, but the goal was ruled out for dangerous play and Belgium held a 1-0 advantage at half time.
India responded strongly after the restart, and Abhishek levelled in the 33rd minute after a well-constructed attacking sequence. The momentum swing was brief. Belgium regained the lead late in the third quarter when De Kerpel converted a Penalty Corner, and Duvekot extended the advantage early in the fourth, punishing another defensive lapse.
India continued to press and Lakra pulled one back in the 57th minute from Rabichandra Singh’s cross, setting up a tense finish. Mohit HS made a crucial save in the final minutes to prevent a fourth Belgian goal, but India could not force an equaliser.
India will next face host Malaysia on November 26 at 1730 IST.
Published on Nov 25, 2025