The Indian men's hockey team suffered a 3-6 defeat against Belgium in a high-scoring FIH Pro League 2024-25 match held at the Sportcentrum Wilrijkse Plein in Antwerp on Saturday, June 21, 2025. This marks the seventh consecutive loss for the Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medalists in the European leg of the Pro League.
Despite a spirited comeback attempt in the third quarter, where India managed to level the score, they couldn't contain Belgium's attacking prowess. Dilpreet Singh (36'), Mandeep Singh (38'), and Amit Rohidas (56') scored for India, but Arthur Van Doren (1', 54') struck twice for Belgium, with Alexander Hendrickx (28'), Roman Duvekot (49'), Thibeau Stockbroekx (53'), and Tom Boon (59') adding to the tally.
India faced an early setback, conceding two penalty corners within the first 20 seconds of the match. While goalkeeper Suraj Karkera initially saved Hendrickx's drag-flick, Van Doren capitalized on the rebound, giving Belgium a 1-0 lead. The early goal disrupted India's rhythm, and Belgium dominated possession for much of the first quarter.
India showed improvement in the second quarter, earning two penalty corners. However, against the run of play, Hendrickx extended Belgium's lead with a low drag-flick just before halftime, making it 2-0.
After the restart, India displayed renewed determination. Jugraj Singh's drag-flick was blocked, but Dilpreet reacted quickly to score from a tight angle. Minutes later, Vivek Sagar Prasad's pass into the circle was deflected by Mandeep Singh, leveling the score at 2-2. India pressed for the lead, with Sanjay narrowly missing a penalty corner attempt.
Belgium responded strongly in the final quarter. Duvekot scored from close range after a skillful run by Boon, and Stockbroekx added a fourth goal following Victor Foubert's pass. Van Doren's second goal further solidified Belgium's lead, and Boon's late strike sealed the 6-3 victory.
With this result, India sits eighth in the FIH Pro League standings with 15 points from 15 matches. The team will conclude their Pro League campaign against Belgium on Sunday.
