Amstelveen, Netherlands – June 12, 2025 – The Indian men’s hockey team suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Argentina in a dramatic FIH Pro League encounter, extending their losing streak in the European leg of the tournament to four consecutive matches. A late penalty stroke controversy further compounded India’s woes, as they failed to capitalize on a golden opportunity to level the score in the dying moments.
Early Lead for India
India started the match with intent, and their early efforts were rewarded in the 4th minute when Jugraj Singh converted a penalty corner with a powerful drag flick, giving his side a 1-0 lead. The goal provided an early boost to the Indian camp, who were eager to bounce back from their previous three defeats in the ongoing European leg.
Argentina Levels and Takes the Lead
Argentina, however, responded quickly. Despite some resolute defending and crucial saves from Indian goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak, Tomas Domene found the equalizer for the South Americans in the 9th minute from a penalty corner. The first quarter ended with the scoreline tied at 1-1.
The second and third quarters saw a cautious approach from both teams, with much of the action unfolding in the midfield. Chances were few and far between, and neither side could break the deadlock, leaving the score at 1-1 heading into the final fifteen minutes.
Argentina came out stronger in the fourth quarter, applying relentless pressure on the Indian defense. Their persistence paid off in the 49th minute when Tomas Domene scored his second goal of the match, once again from a penalty corner, to give Argentina a crucial 2-1 lead.
Late Drama and Missed Opportunity
Trailing for the first time in the game, India pushed hard for an equalizer. The drama peaked in the final two minutes of the match when India was awarded a penalty stroke. Jugraj Singh stepped up to take the shot and initially found the back of the net, seemingly leveling the scores.
However, Argentina immediately called for a video referral, arguing that Jugraj’s left foot was ahead of the ball during the stroke. The video umpire ruled in Argentina’s favor, disallowing the goal. In a twist, India’s captain Hardik Singh then successfully challenged the decision, claiming that the Argentine goalkeeper, Tomas Santiago, had moved off his line prematurely.
The decision went in India’s favor, granting Jugraj a retake. But in a cruel turn of events for India, Tomas Santiago produced a brilliant save to deny Jugraj Singh’s second attempt, preserving Argentina’s narrow lead. Argentina then held on for the remaining seconds, securing a 2-1 victory.
India’s Losing Streak Continues
This defeat marks India’s fourth consecutive loss in the European leg of the FIH Pro League. They had previously lost to Argentina 3-4 in their earlier encounter and suffered two defeats against Olympic champions Netherlands (1-2 and 2-3).
The Indian team, currently led by vice-captain Hardik Singh in the absence of an injured Harmanpreet Singh, now sits fifth in the FIH Pro League standings with 15 points from 12 matches. They will look to turn their fortunes around in their next fixture against Australia on Saturday.
