Netherlands ,August 15
India opened their Hockey World Cup campaign in convincing fashion on Saturday, defeating Wales 3-1 after captain Harmanpreet Singh struck twice from penalty corners.
The hosts took control early and were rewarded in the eighth minute when Sanjay found the net to give India a deserved lead. The goal settled the side and allowed India to dictate possession while forcing Wales to defend deep inside their own half.
India extended their advantage just three minutes later. Harmanpreet converted a penalty corner in the 11th minute, producing a powerful finish that left the Welsh defence with little chance. With a two-goal cushion, India continued to press and created further openings, although Wales managed to prevent additional damage before half-time.
Wales attempted to respond after the interval, but India remained organised and largely controlled the pace of the contest. Harmanpreet then struck again in the 43rd minute, converting another penalty corner to make it 3-0 and put the result beyond serious doubt.
Despite trailing by three goals, Wales refused to give up and secured a consolation goal through Sam Welsh in the 56th minute. The goal followed a crowded scramble in front of the Indian post, where more than five players had converged around goalkeeper Mohith.
There was initial uncertainty over whether the effort should stand because the ball appeared to cross the line before the whistle. The incident was referred to the video umpire, who reviewed the footage and confirmed that the goal was valid.
India remained composed during the closing minutes and denied Wales any opportunity to stage a late comeback. Harmanpreet’s clinical penalty-corner finishing proved decisive, while Sanjay’s early breakthrough provided the platform for a controlled performance.
The 3-1 victory gave India a positive start to the tournament and valuable momentum for the matches ahead in the group stage.
