Sreejesh Shines as India Wins Hockey Quarterfinals at Paris Olympics

In a dramatic quarterfinal match against Great Britain at the Paris Olympics, veteran India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh wondered if this would be his swan song or if he would have two more chances to shine.

Sreejesh emerged as the hero of the match, denying Great Britain multiple scoring opportunities and leading India to a 4-2 win in the penalty shoot-out after regulation time ended at 1-1.

Playing in what could be his last international tournament, Sreejesh's crucial saves, especially in the third and fourth shots of the shoot-out, were instrumental in India's victory. ''Some days require a different effort, but today was our day,'' Sreejesh told the broadcaster. ''The shooters' success gave me the confidence I needed.''

The 36-year-old goalkeeper emphasized the critical role of teamwork in the win. ''Because my players scored four goals, they took the pressure off me,'' he said. The unified effort saw India thwarting consistent challenges from world No. 2 Great Britain, forcing the game into a shoot-out at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium. Sreejesh looked at the situation as a ''do-or-die'' moment, preparing himself to continue the fight with two more potential matches ahead.

Looking forward to the semifinals, Sreejesh said India would focus on their game regardless of the opponent, especially after a red card to Amit Rohidas left them one man down for the last 40 minutes of the game. ''We are waiting for the FIH's decision on that red card, but we need to play our best in the semifinals,'' he said.

(With inputs from agencies.)