The Indian men's hockey team suffered a heartbreaking 1-2 defeat to Argentina in a tightly contested FIH Pro League match held in Amstelveen, Netherlands on June 12, 2025. The loss marks India's fourth consecutive defeat in the European leg of the Pro League, adding pressure as they look ahead to their upcoming clash against Australia.
India started the match brightly, with Jugraj Singh converting an early penalty corner in the 4th minute, giving India a 1-0 lead. Argentina responded swiftly, with Tomas Domene leveling the score in the 9th minute. Both teams then battled intensely, creating chances but failing to convert them into goals. The first half concluded with the score tied at 1-1.
The second half saw Argentina increase their pressure, and Domene struck again in the 49th minute, securing a 2-1 lead for his team. India fought hard to find an equalizer and their efforts paid off when they were awarded a penalty stroke in the final minute of the game after Abhishek made a strong run into the 'D'. However, Jugraj Singh's attempt from the spot was brilliantly saved by Argentine goalkeeper Tomas Santiago, denying India a late equalizer and sealing the victory for Argentina.
This defeat leaves India in fifth place in the FIH Pro League standings, with 15 points from 12 matches. The team is now under considerable pressure to perform well in their remaining matches, starting with their match against Australia on June 14.
Adding to India's challenges, regular captain Harmanpreet Singh was sidelined for the match due to a finger injury sustained in their previous game. Hardik Singh stepped in to lead the team in his absence. Coach Craig Fulton acknowledged that restarts were an area of concern and emphasized the need for improved defense.
Earlier in the European leg, India suffered a narrow 3-4 defeat to Argentina, where defensive errors proved costly. In that match, Harmanpreet Singh scored twice, and Abhishek added another goal for India. However, Argentina capitalized on early opportunities in each quarter, securing the win.
The India vs Argentina match was broadcast on the Star Sports Network in India and streamed live on JioHotstar. Hockey India observed a minute of silence before the match began to honor the victims of the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.
