India Edge Netherlands 3-2 in Thrilling FIH Pro League Clash in Rotterdam

The Indian men’s hockey team delivered a composed and spirited performance to defeat the Netherlands 3-2 in a tightly contested FIH Pro League encounter in Rotterdam, sealing an important win in their final match of the leg.

India began cautiously as the Netherlands applied early pressure with sharp passing and frequent circle entries. The Indian defence, however, quickly settled and absorbed the pressure to keep the hosts from converting their early dominance into goals.

The breakthrough came in the second quarter when Jugraj Singh produced a powerful drag flick off a penalty corner in the 18th minute to give India the lead. The joy was short lived as the Netherlands responded almost immediately, equalising through Pepijn van der Heijden from a penalty corner.

India regained control before halftime with a fine field goal. A precise assist from Jarmanpreet Singh set up Abhishek , who struck a clean backhand finish in the 27th minute to restore the lead at 2-1.

After the break, the Dutch side pushed hard in search of another equaliser, but India stayed disciplined in defence. Goalkeeper interventions and strong marking ensured the lead remained intact despite repeated penalty corner pressure from the hosts.

The turning point came in the 56th minute when India launched a swift counterattack through Dilpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh . The move forced a foul that led to a penalty corner, and Rajinder Singh made no mistake, firing in a drag flick to extend India’s advantage to 3-1.

Reduced to 10 men after a yellow card, the Netherlands mounted a late push and earned multiple penalty corners. India’s defensive unit stood firm, blocking each attempt with composure under pressure.

Koen Bijen finally pulled one back for the hosts in the 59th minute through a clever penalty corner variation, setting up a tense finish. However, India held their structure in the closing moments, even winning a last second penalty corner before the final hooter confirmed a hard fought 3-2 victory .

Stand-in captain Hardik Singh led from the front and was adjudged Player of the Match for his all round control in midfield and leadership throughout the contest.