FIH Hockey Junior World Cup 2023: India lost to Spain

FIH Hockey Junior World Cup 2023: In their second game of the ongoing FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Malaysia 2023, the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team lost 4-1 to Spain on Thursday at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur. For India, Rohit (33′) scored the lone goal. The goal scorers for Spain were Andreas Rafi (18′, 60′) and Pol Cabre Verdiell (1′, 41′). Spain dominated the first quarter of play, putting India on the defensive and quickly taking control of their territory. India made an effort to counterattack and lessen the pressure, but Spain kept up the momentum and took the lead early on thanks to a field goal from Pol Cabre Verdiell (1′).

The Match Tale

Spain pursued the ball with caution, using a structured passing style that produced short, precise passes that opened up space in the circle. But in the first quarter, an Indian goal remained elusive. When the first half ended, Spain had a 2-0 lead over India. India had a great start to the second quarter. But after effectively converting a penalty corner, Spain seized the opportunity and scored their second goal through Captain Andreas Rafi (18′). Spain had a commanding 2-0 lead, which offered them the leeway to try various lineups that would produce results in the circle.

The third quarter was entertaining as both teams displayed quick-fire hockey. Both teams upped their offensive ante, with India desperately trying to find a way to recover. In the first minute of the quarter, India was awarded a penalty corner. Whereas, Rohit’s attempt was expertly blocked, keeping them from converting. Rohit (33′) discovered the back of the net this time. Spain increased their lead with four minutes left when Pol Cabre Verdiell (41′) converted a penalty corner.

There were fifteen minutes remaining when India began to show urgency. Although Uttam scored the goal with an incredible pass inside the circle, the Spain custodian stopped him. Andreas Rafi, the captain, scored his second goal in 60′. Spain emerged victorious in the match, 4-1. At 15:30 IST on Saturday, December 9, India will play their third match of the tournament against Canada.