In a high-octane clash at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, the Indian men’s hockey team kicked off their FIH Pro League 2025-26 campaign against reigning Olympic champions Belgium on February 11, 2026. What promised to be a stern test for Harmanpreet Singh and his squad turned into a display of Belgian prowess, with the Red Lions securing a convincing 3-1 victory. Drawing from the official highlights released by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), here’s a detailed breakdown of the action-packed encounter that had fans on the edge of their seats.
A Fiery Start: Belgium Strikes First
The match exploded into life right from the pushback, with both teams showcasing the intensity expected in the Pro League—a tournament that spans continents and tests the mettle of the world’s top hockey nations. Belgium, having won the toss, wasted no time asserting dominance. Within minutes, they earned a penalty corner after a strong baseline run found the foot of Indian defender Jugraj Singh.
Alexander Hendrickx, Belgium’s drag-flick specialist, stepped up but was thwarted by a brilliant first rush from India’s defense, backed by captain Harmanpreet Singh and Sumit. However, the Red Lions’ relentless pressure paid off soon after. A turnover from Harmanpreet in midfield led to a swift counterattack, culminating in a 2v1 situation that Belgium converted effortlessly for the opening goal. The crowd’s cheers turned to gasps as Belgium took a 1-0 lead, highlighting their trademark pace and precision.
India’s Resilient Response: The Equalizer Arrives
Undeterred, India fought back with characteristic grit. A well-orchestrated passing sequence saw the ball fed into the circle, where a deflection off a Belgian defender’s foot earned India their first penalty corner. Harmanpreet took the initial flick, but it was Amit Rohidas who delivered on the second opportunity. His powerful drag-flick was saved, but the rebound fell kindly to forward Shilanand Lakra, who pounced to slot home the equalizer. The stadium erupted as India leveled the score at 1-1, injecting hope into the home side’s campaign.
This moment encapsulated India’s fighting spirit under head coach Craig Fulton, the South African tactician who has been instrumental in rebuilding the team post their Olympic performances. With the Pro League serving as crucial preparation for future global events, this goal was a reminder of India’s potential to challenge the elites.
Belgium Turns the Screw: A Second-Half Surge
As the game progressed, Belgium’s experience shone through. Tom Boon, a constant threat, earned another penalty corner with a clever reverse hit that clipped Amit Rohidas’ legs. Though India defended valiantly— with goalkeeper Krishan Pathak and Harmanpreet combining to clear a deflected effort from Hendrickx—the Red Lions kept probing.
The breakthrough came when Tanguy Cosyns unleashed a thunderous hit from the top of the circle, finding the back of the net with unerring accuracy. Belgium regained the lead at 2-1, a goal that underscored their ability to exploit even the smallest openings. India pushed forward in response, with players like Hardik Singh and Sukhjit Singh trying to create chances, but Belgium’s defense held firm.
The final nail in the coffin arrived late in the game. A slick move down the right flank saw Arno Van Dessel receive a pass inside the circle and fire home. India referred the decision, suspecting the ball had crossed the baseline earlier, but the video umpire upheld the goal after review, making it 3-1. Despite a late attempt by Araijeet Singh Hundal, India couldn’t mount a comeback, and the match concluded with Belgium emerging victorious.
Final Thoughts: Lessons for India in a Tough Opener
This 3-1 defeat marks a challenging start for India in the 2025-26 Pro League, but it’s far from a setback. Facing the world’s best on home soil—in Rourkela and simultaneously in other global venues—provides invaluable experience. Belgium’s clinical finishing and transitional play were the difference, but India’s equalizer showed flashes of brilliance that fans can build on.
Video source: YouTube
