Hockey World champions Germany lose series in a shoot-out after Indian team defeats them 5-3 in second test

In a thrilling contest, India clinched a 5-3 victory over world champions Germany in the second hockey Test at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday, October 24, 2024. Despite this win, the hosts lost the two-match series in a shoot-out, with Germany emerging as the overall winners.

Germany initially took the lead with Elian Mazkour scoring in the 7th and 57th minutes, while Henrik Mertgens added another in the 60th minute. However, India turned the tide in the second half, with crucial goals from Sukhjeet Singh (34th, 48th minutes), captain Harmanpreet Singh (42nd, 43rd minutes), and Abhishek (45th minute), bringing the series to a tie. Germany had previously won the opening Test 2-0 on Wednesday.

In the deciding shoot-out, India’s hopes were dashed as Harmanpreet, Abhishek, and Mohammed Raheel missed their shots, while Aditya was the lone scorer for India. Indian goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak made two impressive saves during the shoot-out but couldn’t prevent Germany from claiming the series with a 3-1 shoot-out score.

India showed early intent, creating opportunities, but Germany’s defense stood strong. Mazkour’s powerful reverse shot opened the scoring for Germany in the 7th minute. Shortly after, Indian debutant Aditya Arjun Lalage came close to equalizing with a shot set up by Jarmanpreet Singh, but Germany’s goalkeeper Joshua Nnaji Onyekwue made the save.

The first half saw several penalty corner chances for both teams, but neither managed to capitalize. After the break, India came out determined, earning three quick penalty corners early in the third quarter but failing to convert. Persistence paid off as Harmanpreet finally scored two consecutive penalty corners, leveling and then pulling India ahead with a powerful grounded flick. Abhishek followed up with a fierce strike from the right, extending India’s lead to 4-1.

In the final quarter, Sukhjeet scored again with a skillful reverse hit, bringing India to a 5-1 lead. However, Germany responded with a spirited push, netting two late goals. Mazkour struck in the 57th minute, showcasing skillful control to bypass Indian defenders, and Mertgens added another just as the final hooter sounded.

With each side securing a win in the series, the shoot-out became the deciding factor, ultimately giving Germany the series win despite India’s spirited play.