India beat Netherlands 3–2 in thrilling FIH Pro League clash in Rotterdam
India defeated the Netherlands 3–2 in a thrilling FIH Pro League match in Rotterdam. Goals from Jugraj Singh, Abhishek and Rajinder Singh secured India’s second win of the leg as they held off late Dutch pressure
Rotterdam: The Indian men’s hockey team produced another superb performance to notch up a 3–2 win over the Netherlands in their final match of the FIH Pro League Rotterdam leg at Hockey Club Rotterdam on Sunday.
Goals from Jugraj Singh (18’), Abhishek (27’), and Rajinder Singh (56’) helped India secure their second outright victory of the leg against the Dutch side. Pepijn van der Heijden (19’) and Koen Bijen (59’) scored for the hosts.
Stand-in captain Hardik Singh was named Player of the Match for his exceptional leadership and midfield display.
The Netherlands started strongly in the first quarter, showcasing impressive passing and putting the Indian backline under early pressure. India had a slightly shaky start but soon settled as the defence found its rhythm and contained the Dutch attackers. The first quarter ended goalless.
India increased the intensity in the second quarter and won their first penalty corner. Jugraj Singh converted it with a powerful drag-flick to give India the lead, but the Netherlands responded quickly through van der Heijden to make it 1–1.
India regained the lead before half-time when Jarmanpreet Singh set up Abhishek, who finished with a sharp backhand strike.
In the third quarter, the Netherlands pressed hard but were unable to break through India’s disciplined defence. Amit Rohidas made a key stop from a penalty corner as India maintained their 2–1 advantage.
The final quarter saw sustained Dutch pressure, but India remained composed. A counter-attack involving Dilpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh led to a penalty corner, which Rajinder Singh converted to extend India’s lead to 3–1.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, the Netherlands pulled one back through Koen Bijen from a penalty corner variation to make it 3–2.
India held firm in the closing minutes to seal a hard-fought victory.
