Rotterdam, June 14: In their opening match of the FIH Men’s Pro League 2025-26 in Rotterdam, the Indian men’s hockey team suffered a close defeat against the host Netherlands, losing 2-3. Dilpreet Singh and Sukjeet Singh scored for India, but the Dutch team capitalized on their strong start and decisive moments to secure the win.
The Netherlands began the match aggressively, earning four consecutive penalty corners in the opening minutes. In the third minute, Miles Buckens scored with a reverse hit, giving his team a 1-0 lead.
India quickly attempted to respond. An effort from Shilanand Lakra hit the post in the eighth minute, but in the tenth minute, captain Harmanpreet Singh delivered a brilliant long pass that Dilpreet Singh finished expertly, leveling the score at 1-1.
In the second quarter, the Netherlands maintained possession and put consistent pressure on the Indian goal. Goalkeeper Suraj Karkera made several outstanding saves, but in the 23rd minute, Koen Bijen scored with a first-time shot, giving the Netherlands a 2-1 lead that held until halftime.
The Indian team showed improved performance in the third quarter, and in the 33rd minute, Sukjeet Singh converted their first penalty corner into a goal, equalizing the score at 2-2. However, the Netherlands regained the lead in the 40th minute with a goal from Tizemen Reyenga following another penalty corner.
In the final quarter, India launched continuous attacks in search of an equalizer and earned several penalty corners, but the Dutch defense held firm. Ultimately, the Netherlands secured the match with a final score of 3-2.
The Indian team will play their next match against Germany on June 17.
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