After seven straight defeats and an extended spell of frustration, India’s men’s hockey team finally found its winning touch again in FIH Pro League 2024–25
In their final game of the FIH Pro League 2024–25 season, the Indian side edged past reigning Olympic champions Belgium 4-3 in a dramatic encounter decided by a last-minute penalty stroke.
Relief and joy were written all over the faces of the Indian players at the final whistle. This was not just a win it was a statement of resilience. It was a team battered by form and questions, yet willing to fight until the very end. And on a breezy evening in Antwerp, they finally got their reward.
A Win That Was Long Overdue
Coming into this game, India had lost all seven matches on their European leg of the Pro League tour. Confidence was low. Execution had been patchy. But against Belgium, a side known for clinical discipline and structured hockey, India looked more composed, more daring, and crucially, more determined.
It was a match of swinging fortunes, with momentum shifting constantly between both sides. The lead changed hands, counters flowed at both ends, and in the dying moments, the match exploded into drama.
With just over a minute to go, India were awarded a controversial penalty stroke after an infringement inside the circle. Up stepped Harmanpreet Singh—back from injury, wearing the armband, and exuding calm under pressure. As he has done so many times before, the Indian captain delivered, slotting the ball past the Belgian goalkeeper to seal a famous 4-3 win.
Harmanpreet: The Difference Maker
India’s skipper wasn’t just the match-winner. His influence on the pitch was evident from the first whistle. In his return to the side after injury, Harmanpreet had a hand in two of India’s earlier goals and marshaled the defence with authority. The late penalty stroke might grab the headlines, but his all-round presence was arguably the single biggest factor in India’s win.
Captaincy, leadership, execution Harmanpreet delivered on all fronts. And for a team craving direction, his return couldn’t have come at a better time.
Sukhjeet Singh: A Milestone Night to Remember
While Harmanpreet provided the finish, Sukhjeet Singh was India’s driving force up front. Making his 100th international appearance, the forward was electric throughout the match. His relentless runs, smart link-up play, and attacking threat kept Belgium on their toes. Fittingly, he was awarded the Player of the Match for a standout performance that encapsulated his journey as one of India’s most consistent attacking outlets over the past year.
Even during the seven-game losing streak, Sukhjeet had often looked like India’s best forward. On this night, he celebrated his milestone with a display full of grit and class.
The Match: High-Octane, High-Drama
India took an early lead, only for Belgium to bounce back with two quick goals. It looked like déjà vu for the Indian side as defensive lapses threatened to undo their attacking enterprise.
But unlike previous games, India didn’t fold. They struck back twice first through a swift counterattack and then off a penalty corner routine to level the scores at 3-3.
With less than two minutes remaining and the match seemingly headed for a draw, the drama unfolded. A video referral confirmed the penalty stroke, and Harmanpreet made no mistake. India held on in the final seconds for their most spirited win of the season.
A Grim European Leg Ends with Positivity
Despite this emotional victory, India’s performance across the Pro League season leaves a lot to ponder. The team finished 8th out of 9, with 6 wins and 10 losses overall. The European leg was especially disappointing 7 straight defeats before this game highlighted issues in consistency, fitness, and finishing under pressure.
Yet, this win gives the squad a crucial morale boost ahead of a packed 2026 season that includes the FIH Hockey World Cup and the Asian Games. It also reinforces the importance of experienced leaders like Harmanpreet and emerging stalwarts like Sukhjeet.
India’s Pro League campaign has ended with 18 points far below expectations for a team that aspires to be among the world’s top 5. But the final win provides a lifeline, a reminder that this team can rise above adversity when it matters most.
A long off-season now awaits, but so do key tournaments. With time to regroup, assess, and rebuild, India’s path to redemption in 2026 begins now.
For now, though, the team and their fans can finally exhale.
Final Score: Belgium 🇧🇪 3 – 4 🇮🇳 India
India’s 2024–25 FIH Pro League Record:
Wins – 6
Losses – 10
Final Position – 8th out of 9
The losing streak is over. The questions remain. But for one night in Antwerp, India showed fight, flair, and finally, found victory.
