Hockey World Cup: Simon Gougnard's strike sees India-Belgium share the spoils
Bhubaneswar: Simon Gougnard exposed India’s defensive Achilles heel once again as Belgium held the hosts to a thrilling 2-2 draw in their pool C encounter at the 2018 Men’s Hockey World Cup in Bhubaneswar on Sunday.
Alexander Hendrickx gave world No 3 Belgium an early lead through a penalty corner as Manpreet Singh and co failed to find their feet in the first quarter. But following a goalless second quarter, Harendra Singh’s men registered a sizzling comeback to stun the visitors.
India maintain their spot on top of Pool C while South Africa and Canada earn their first points of the OHMWC Bhubaneswar 2018 on 2nd December. Here's how the teams stand after an eventful day in the competition.#CANvRSA #INDvBEL #IndiaKaGame #HWC2018 #DilHockey pic.twitter.com/UQmmIASIKJ
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) December 2, 2018
Defender Harmanpreet Singh restored parity in the 39th minute through a penalty stroke to deny Vincent Vanasch before a brilliant run from Kothajit Singh down the left helped Simranjeet Singh to make 2-1.
A lapse in concentration during the dying minutes resulted in Gougnard drawing level for the Olympic finalists, leaving no change for goalkeeper PR Sreejesh.
India, however, continue to top their group with four points along with Belgium on goal difference. They next face Canada on Saturday in a must-win contest to punch their ticket to the quarters.
