Manpreet: Beginning of the tough roadahead

India’s win against World number two Netherlands has come as a welcome surprise for everyone who has been following Indian hockey. India, who was already reeling under the pressure of two defeats from the previous two match surprised everyone after winning against the World Cup silver medalists after 18 years.

The man of the match Manpreet Singh who netted India’s second goal, and played a crucial role in the mid-field, says that the team was looking forward to the win to make up for the other two losses.

“The format of the tournament is such that we knew every team will play the quarter-final. So, mentally, we were not under any pressure. But, we did not want to lose all the three matches of the pool stage. So, each of the player gave effort and overall everyone has contributed for the win,” Manpreet says.

“Netherlands is a tough team to beat. But we had decided to play attacking game. We also had a look at the video analysis of the match. We knew that we could win if we apply the tactics we had planned against them.”

But, winning against Netherlands is just the beginning of the tough road ahead. India will now play Belgium, who is already in a good shape. “Yes, Belgium will be a tough team. But Netherlands was also a tough team and we played well. We will play well against Belgium as well.”