Redemption Time: India’s Hockey Teams Face Belgium Test

June 20, 2025: India’s campaign in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024–25 has been anything but ideal. With hopes of finishing in the top three and eyeing a direct qualification for the World Cup, both the Indian men’s and women’s teams now face a stern test as they take on hosts Belgium in their final matches of the European leg.

After enduring six straight losses, the Indian men’s team will lock horns with Belgium on June 21 and 22 in what promises to be a thrilling double-header. Belgium, currently third in the points table behind the Netherlands and Australia, are coming off a solid 6-3 win against Spain and are likely to pose a serious challenge.

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India, now placed 8th in the standings, is looking to end the campaign on a high. Vice-captain Hardik Singh reflected on the team’s journey, saying, “The results haven’t gone our way, and it hurts more when we know we’ve played well but couldn’t convert performances into wins. Our rivalry with Belgium has always pushed us to perform better, and we’re aiming for a strong finish with improved defence and clinical attacks.”

The women’s team, on the other hand, is set to face world no.3 Belgium in Antwerp. Captain Salima Tete remains optimistic, despite recent setbacks. “We took Argentina to a shootout and had close games with Australia. Our 1-4 loss to Argentina taught us key lessons, which we’ve worked on. We’re now ready to give it our all against Belgium, just like we did in last year’s tight contests,” she shared.

As both teams prepare for their final fixtures in this leg, fans can expect spirited performances, as India looks to end on a high note and regain lost momentum.