India Secures First Win in FIH Pro League 2024/25 with a 2-0 Victory Over Spain
Mandeep and Dilpreet Shine as India Bounces Back in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, February 16, 2025 – The Indian men’s hockey team opened their FIH Pro League 2024/25 account with a clinical 2-0 victory over Spain at the Kalinga Stadium, Odisha. After a disappointing 3-1 loss to the same opponents in their season opener, India responded with an improved performance, securing a crucial win despite the absence of captain Harmanpreet Singh.
A Much-Needed Comeback After Early Struggles
India entered the match with immense pressure, having lost their opening game. With most teams already deep into their campaigns, India found themselves playing catch-up in the league standings. However, they rose to the occasion with a commanding display against Spain.
The first two quarters saw both teams battling for control, with India creating several scoring opportunities but failing to convert them into goals. Spain, on the other hand, showed resilience in defense, keeping India at bay. However, India came out stronger in the third quarter, breaking the deadlock with a well-executed field goal from Mandeep Singh.
Shortly after, Dilpreet Singh doubled the lead with a stunning finish, leaving Spain struggling to find a response. India’s defense, led by veteran goalkeeper Krishan Pathak, stood firm, ensuring a clean sheet and sealing their first victory of the campaign.
Challenges of a Late Start in the Pro League
India was the last team to begin their FIH Pro League 2024/25 journey, and the late start put them under immediate pressure. While other teams had already played multiple matches, India had just begun their campaign.
In their first match, India suffered a 3-1 defeat to Spain, where Sukhjeet Singh gave them an early lead, only for Spain to make a strong comeback. Goals from Borja Callos and a late penalty corner saw Spain emerge victorious, exposing India’s defensive lapses and lack of finishing.
The loss meant India had no room for further errors, and they delivered a much-needed victory in the rematch. With this win, they now look to gain momentum as they play a series of home fixtures at the Kalinga Stadium in Odisha.
India’s Quest for a Strong Pro League Finish
India’s last campaign in the FIH Pro League ended in a disappointing sixth-place finish, which fell short of expectations. With the talent and experience in the squad, led by Harmanpreet Singh, the team knows they are capable of much more.
The current league standings are already shaping up, with the Netherlands leading the table after playing eight matches. Spain, after their fifth game, sits in the fourth position with two wins, one shootout victory, and two losses. India, now on the board with their first win, will look to climb the rankings in the coming fixtures.
The team’s next challenge will be to maintain consistency, especially in their home matches. With games coming thick and fast, India must capitalize on their opportunities to stay in contention for a top finish.
Coach and Captain’s Take on the Performance
Despite the initial loss, India’s captain Harmanpreet Singh remained positive, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes. “This was a good learning experience. We started well and created chances, but we need to work on our finishing. We will take the positives and move forward,” he said after the first match.
Coach Craig Fulton also stressed the importance of improvement, especially in converting opportunities. “We dominated possession in both games, but in the first match, we failed to convert key chances. Today, we were much sharper, and that made the difference,” he said after India’s 2-0 victory.
The Road Ahead: Key Matches and Expectations
India will now look to build on this win and carry forward the momentum in their upcoming matches. With home advantage at the Kalinga Stadium, they have an opportunity to rack up points and move up the table.
The team’s focus will also be on regaining their chemistry, as several players recently participated in the Hockey India League (HIL) and are now transitioning back into the national team setup.
With the FIH Pro League 2024/25 still in its early stages, India’s campaign is far from over. However, with this convincing win over Spain, they have taken a crucial first step toward competing at the highest level.
Their next matches will be vital in determining whether they can challenge for a top-three finish and possibly fight for the Pro League title. Fans will be hoping for more performances like today’s as India aims to establish itself as a dominant force in world hockey once again.