Rotterdam, June 19: The Indian men’s hockey team faced a heartbreaking defeat against the reigning world champions, Germany, in their third match of the FIH Pro League 2025-26, losing 2-1. Despite a strong performance, India could not hold on to their lead in the final moments of the game.
Jugraj Singh, playing in his 100th international match, scored India’s only goal in the 38th minute. However, Germany’s Justus Weigand equalized in the 56th minute, followed by Jacob Brilla’s decisive goal in the 60th minute, sealing the victory for Germany.
India started the match aggressively, maintaining good ball control and applying pressure on Germany. Their solid and compact defense limited the world champions’ scoring opportunities.
In the second quarter, India intensified their high-pressing game, forcing Germany into several mistakes. Abhishek created the best opportunity for India in the first half, but failed to convert. The third quarter remained fiercely contested, with India maintaining possession effectively. They earned their first penalty corner in the 38th minute, which Jugraj converted with a powerful drag-flick, giving India a 1-0 lead.
Towards the end of the third quarter, Germany earned a few penalty corners, but goalkeeper Mohit HS made crucial saves, helping India maintain their slim lead. In the final quarter, India had multiple chances to double their advantage but could not capitalize. Germany made a stunning comeback in the 56th minute when Weigand scored, leveling the match at 1-1. In the dying moments, Germany was awarded another penalty corner, which Brilla converted, securing a 2-1 victory for Germany.
India will face the Netherlands in their next match on Sunday.
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