India sure of quarterfinal despite Dutch defeat

Emerging Indian men’s hockey team is sure of making it to the Rio Quarterfinal stage despite losing to The Netherlands on the penultimate engagement today.

As thing turn out today, India’s two wins in first three matches come handy as the last of the engagements will be played tomorrow (Friday, the 12th August).
Had India drawn today, which was in its grasp with five penalty corners coming in the last moment, it had chance to finish second in the pool, but it was not to be as the resolute Netherlands would not buckle under pressure.

India will clash against last placed Canada tomorrow to complete its pool outings. If it wins against the hitherto winless Canada, which it seems is likely against its performance so far in Rio, India will be placed third in pool B.

Germany and Netherlands have 10 points each, and they will be at top two.

Things rolled in favour of India today – though it lost narrowly to The Dutch.

Had Argentina defeated Germany, which was cruising with a goal lead till 8 secs left in the clock, we would be having different story to tell, but Germans being what they are, again did what they did against India.

They draw led Argentina to fourth position. Argentina will now meet Ireland in its last pool match.

Argentina now has five points. With a win, it can get over all 8 points.

If India wins tomorrow, it will have nine points and will pip Argentina to 4th spot.

Even a draw against Canada is suffice for India to maintain its third position.

Even in the unlikely event of losing to Canada, India will still be in the quarters, as Ireland which if can win Argentina, will lose out due to heavy minus goal difference.