Source: Hindustan Times
In an electrifying encounter, India roared back after a sluggish first half to defeat Germany 5-3 in the second and final Test at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. With both teams having won one match each in the two-match series, Germany clinched the series in a shootout victory, but it was India’s remarkable fightback that stole the spotlight.
India seemed lackluster in the first half, trailing 1-0 at halftime, much like their previous 0-2 loss. However, a halftime pep talk from coach Craig Fulton lit a fire under the team. In the third quarter, India came out blazing, scoring four quick goals that completely flipped the script.
Germany took an early lead in the 7th minute through a swift counter-attack by Elian Mazkour, while India missed a scoring opportunity. But after halftime, a renewed Indian squad took charge. Sukhjeet Singh’s (34th, 48th) goals helped India equalize, and skipper Harmanpreet Singh’s (42nd, 43rd) back-to-back penalty corner strikes gave India a commanding lead.
Shilanand Lakra’s well-timed pass to Sukhjeet set up a brilliant deflection that brought the home crowd to its feet. Harmanpreet followed up with two precise penalty corners, his shots blazing past the German goalkeeper like bullets.
By the final quarter, India was unstoppable. Abhishek’s dazzling solo run, slicing through four defenders, put India ahead 4-1, and Sukhjeet’s final goal made it 5-1, solidifying India’s dominance. Despite Germany’s late comeback attempts, scoring two more goals through Mazkour and Mertgens, India secured a well-deserved 5-3 win.
“We were playing well, but couldn’t capitalize early. Once we got going, the goals came in quick succession. Our pressing game paid off,” said a delighted Fulton after the match.
Harmanpreet, named Player of the Match, praised his team’s resilience. “We adjusted after analyzing yesterday’s game. Although we couldn’t win the series, I’m proud of our field goals and penalty corners today.”
India’s promising performance bodes well for future matches, with young players stepping up and key veterans like Amit Rohidas marking major milestones.
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