AMSTELVEEN: India suffered a setback in their bid to reach the Hockey World Cup semi-finals after losing 3-1 to the Netherlands in a Pool E match on Sunday.
Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored India’s only goal, but the Netherlands struck three times to secure a crucial victory and strengthen their position in the group.
India enjoyed more possession for long periods but struggled to turn their control into clear-cut opportunities, while the Dutch were more effective when they moved into the attacking third.
The defeat leaves Harmanpreet’s side without a point in Pool E, having entered the second phase without carrying over any points from the previous round.
The Netherlands, meanwhile, moved to six points after carrying three points from the previous stage and adding another three with their victory over India.
The result leaves India facing a difficult task in their remaining matches as they seek to keep their hopes of reaching the last four alive.
The Netherlands’ ability to convert their attacking opportunities proved decisive, with India unable to match their efficiency despite controlling significant periods of the contest.
India will now need a strong response in their remaining Pool E fixtures and will be hoping for favourable results elsewhere to keep their semi-final ambitions on track.
