Harmanpreet Singh's Late Goal Saves India from Defeat Against Argentina in Paris Olympics

Indian Men's Hockey Team captain Harmanpreet Singh scored a late goal to secure a 1-1 draw against Argentina in their Pool B match at the Paris Olympics 2024. Despite early setbacks, India's resilient performance ensured a crucial point, leaving fans in celebration at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium.

Indian Men's Hockey Team captain Harmanpreet Singh netted a late goal to ensure a 1-1 draw against Argentina in their Pool B match at the Paris Olympics 2024 on Monday. The contest, held at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, saw Lucas Martinez put Argentina ahead in the 22nd minute.

India entered the match confident from their opening 3-2 win over New Zealand, but struggled to break the Argentine defence despite a dominant first quarter. The Argentine team, rebounding from a 0-1 loss to Australia, applied early pressure. Mandeep Singh seized an opportunity in the 10th minute with a penalty corner, although the subsequent dragflick by Sanjay missed its mark. Meanwhile, Abhishek's ambitious attempt struck the crossbar, narrowly missing an early lead.

The second quarter saw back-to-back penalty corners for India in the 19th minute, but Argentine goalie Santiago thwarted multiple scoring attempts. Martinez extended Argentina's lead in the 22nd minute, evading Harmanpreet to net the ball past a diving Sreejesh. India's potential equalizing moves met with a steadfast Argentine defense throughout the quarter. Post-break, Argentina prevented Indian forwards from capitalizing in the striking circle and even missed a penalty stroke due to Jarmanpreet's body infringement.

The final quarter was dramatic as India's hunt for an equalizer intensified. Argentina's defense restricted movement, forcing India to rely on aerial balls. In the final moments, a series of penalty corners culminated in Harmanpreet's powerful dragflick past Santiago, securing the draw. The late goal triggered jubilant celebrations among Indian supporters.

India faces Ireland next in their third Pool B match on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies.)