India Wins Bronze Medal in Men’s Hockey at Paris 2024 Olympics
The Indian men’s hockey team clinched the bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics with a 2-1 victory over Spain. After trailing, captain Harmanpreet Singh scored twice to secure the win, marking India’s 13th Olympic hockey medal and showcasing the team’s historic consecutive medal wins. Veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh played his final match, contributing significantly to the victory, solidifying India’s legacy in Olympic hockey.
In a thrilling encounter at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Indian men’s hockey team triumphed over Spain 2-1 to secure the bronze medal. Despite falling behind to Spain’s Marc Miralles, who scored in the 18th minute, India responded with two goals from their captain Harmanpreet Singh in quick succession. This victory marked India’s 13th Olympic hockey medal and their second consecutive bronze, making history by securing medals in two straight editions for the first time since 1972.
Captain Harmanpreet Singh expressed pride in the team’s achievement, stating, “We create history again, back-to-back (bronze medals). It’s a big day for India and a big day for hockey.” He highlighted the importance of the victory for veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who played his final match. The Indian team, recognized as the most successful in Olympic hockey history, also aimed to maintain their momentum after ending a 41-year medal drought in the previous Olympics.
Facing world No. 8 Spain, India began the match cautiously but gradually built momentum. The first quarter saw minimal opportunities on goal, but Spain took a lead through a penalty stroke awarded after an infringement by Manpreet Singh. Spanish goalkeeper Luis Calzado made key saves, keeping the match competitive, but India’s persistence paid off with Harmanpreet converting a penalty corner just before halftime, equalizing the score.
Following the break, Harmanpreet scored again, taking the lead for India. However, a Spanish goal was disallowed after video replays indicated it did not adhere to the rules. The final quarter was intensely contested as Spain searched for an equalizer. India’s defensive line, led by Sreejesh, held strong, with the goalkeeper making crucial saves as the clock wound down in his illustrious career. Their resolute performance clinched a memorable victory for the Indian team.
The Indian men’s hockey team has a storied history within the sport, being recognized as one of the most successful teams in Olympic history. With a record of eight gold medals, one silver, and three bronze medals, they approached the Paris 2024 Olympics aiming to continue adding to their tally. The team’s previous bronze medal win at Tokyo 2020 highlighted a resurgence in their form, breaking a 41-year medal drought, escalating expectations for this tournament. The significance of this match was amplified by the farewell of veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, adding emotional weight to the encounter against a formidable Spanish team.
The thrilling match at Paris 2024 not only showcased the resilience of the Indian men’s hockey team but also marked a historic achievement by securing back-to-back bronze medals. Harmanpreet Singh’s leadership and performance were instrumental in overcoming an early setback, while PR Sreejesh’s dedication and experience were vital during the game’s crucial moments. This victory strengthens India’s position in Olympic hockey and underscores the continued growth and success of the team on the international stage.
Original Source: www.olympics.com
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