Rourkela, February 14: Belgium delivered an impressive performance on Friday, defeating Argentina 5-2 in an exciting match of the Men’s FIH Hockey Pro League at the Birsa Munda Stadium. Meanwhile, Australia maintained their unbeaten streak by overpowering Pakistan 3-0, while Argentina’s women had to work hard for a win against Ireland.
In the match held in Rourkela, Arthur De Sloover celebrated his 200th game for Belgium. The match was tightly contested, with the score tied at 2-2 with just 11 minutes remaining. Belgium then showcased their skill and determination to secure the victory.
On the other hand, the Australian team achieved a clean sweep in their home leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League by defeating Pakistan 3-0 in Hobart. The Australians controlled the pace of the game, breaking the deadlock in the 14th minute. Blake Govers skillfully maneuvered the ball along the baseline and fired a shot that deflected off a defender and into the net.
Pakistan created a few opportunities but struggled to maintain consistent pressure against Australia. Pakistani goalkeeper Ali Raza made several outstanding saves, keeping the scoreline to just one goal at halftime.
The fast-paced action continued into the third quarter. Govers scored his second goal from a penalty stroke in the 34th minute, extending Australia’s lead to 2-0. Nathan Ginther then made a remarkable driving run, passing the ball to Jack Welch, who scored in the 42nd minute, sealing the match at 3-0. The home team comfortably maintained their lead, preserving their impressive record in Hobart.
In the women’s match, Argentina faced Ireland and secured a 2-1 victory. Just days earlier, they had defeated the same opponent 5-0. Ireland started aggressively, taking several shots on goal early in the match. Their efforts paid off in the second minute when Michelle Carey deflected a penalty corner drag-flick into the net, giving Ireland a 1-0 lead.
Argentina responded in the 15th minute. A quick one-touch pass allowed Maria Granato enough time and space to control the ball and unleash a powerful reverse stick shot, leveling the score. In the dying moments of the second quarter, Argentina earned a penalty corner, but the Irish defense held firm, and the score remained tied at halftime.
In the 37th minute, Agustina Gorzelani’s trademark drag-flick gave Las Leonas their first lead of the match. Argentina maintained pressure throughout the third quarter, creating several opportunities but failing to extend their lead. Ireland’s offense dwindled in the final quarter. With just two minutes left, they pulled their goalkeeper, but it proved ineffective. Argentina controlled the game and secured a 2-1 victory.
