India end 52-year wait to beat Australia in Olympic Games hockey

Dubai: India ended a 52-year wait to defeat Australia in the Summer Olympics when they won the Pool B contest 3-2 in Paris on Friday.

Skipper Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals, including a penalty stroke, after Abhishek put the eight-time gold medallists ahead, while Thomas Craig and Blake Govers reduced the margin.

India’s previous win came in the Munich Olympics in 1972 when they won 3-1. The win strengthened India’s hopes after wins over New Zealand and Ireland. With nine points from five matches, the Tokyo Olympics bronze medallists have already booked their place in the quarter-finals. India’s only loss came against world No 1 Belgium on Thursday.

Veteran Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who is playing in his last international tournament made several saves to keep the India’s advantage intact.

India managed to keep their hopes alive with a late 1-1 draw against Argentina on Monday. Trailing until the 58th minute, India were rescued by captain Harmanpreet Singh’s strike from a penalty corner.

The late goal brought huge celebrations among Indian fans present in the stands and ensured they split the winning points with Argentina.

World No 7 India, who rallied to win the thrilling opener against New Zealand 3-2, are in second spot behind reigning champions Belgium. The top four from each group will advance to the quarter-finals.