Harmanpreet, Sreejesh star as India claim 2nd successive hockey BRONZE in Olympics with win over Spain (WATCH)

In a spectacular display of skill and resilience, the Indian hockey team clinched their second consecutive bronze medal at the Olympics, triumphing 2-1 over Spain in a thrilling match at the Paris Olympics 2024 on Thursday. This victory not only secured India's podium finish but also provided a fitting farewell to veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who played his final international game.

India, which secured bronze at the Tokyo Games after a 41-year hiatus, met expectations despite an imperfect lead-up to the Paris 2024 Olympics. This marks the first time since 1968 and 1972 that India has won back-to-back Olympic medals in hockey.

This bronze medal marks India’s 13th Olympic medal in hockey and their fourth bronze in the prestigious event. The victory also brings India's total medal tally at the Paris Games to four, with shooter Manu Bhaker contributing two bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol and mixed team events.

Skipper Harmanpreet Singh emerged as the hero of the match, scoring both goals for India. His first goal came in the 30th minute when he converted a crucial penalty corner, leveling the score after Spain had taken an early lead. Harmanpreet's second strike, another expertly taken penalty corner in the 33rd minute, proved to be the match-winner. This performance underscored his status as one of the most reliable drag-flickers in the game, securing his position as the tournament’s top scorer with a total of 10 goals.

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The match was also a memorable farewell for PR Sreejesh, whose illustrious 18-year career came to a close. The 36-year-old goalkeeper delivered a series of critical saves throughout the game, showcasing his exceptional reflexes and experience. His performance was instrumental in preserving India's lead and ensuring their bronze medal finish. Sreejesh was honored as the 'God of Indian Modern Hockey' by Hockey India before the match, a tribute to his significant contributions to the sport.

Match highlights

Despite a heart-breaking 2-3 semifinal loss to Germany, India came out aggressively in the first quarter, dominating possession and creating early scoring opportunities. Vice-captain Hardik Singh made a notable run down the right flank, setting up Sukhjeet Singh for a shot that narrowly missed the Spanish goal.

Spain drew first blood in the 18th minute when Marc Miralles converted a penalty stroke, sending the ball into the top right corner past veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. They also secured consecutive penalty corners in the 20th minute, but India’s defense held firm. A penalty corner in the 28th minute, following a post-hit by Borja Lacalle, proved ineffective for Spain.

Trailing 0-1, India fought back and earned their first penalty corner in the 29th minute, which went unconverted. However, just 21 seconds before halftime, Manpreet redeemed himself by earning another penalty corner, which Harmanpreet successfully converted to equalize.

The second half witnessed a more aggressive approach from India. In the 33rd minute, another penalty corner was awarded to India, and Harmanpreet Singh once again rose to the occasion. His precise shot delivered India's second goal, putting them ahead. The Indian defense, anchored by Sreejesh, withstood Spain’s efforts to level the match.

 

India had another penalty corner opportunity in the 35th minute, but Harmanpreet’s shot was blocked by Spanish goalkeeper Luis Calzado. Mandeep Singh’s impressive run resulted in another short corner, but Spanish defender Jordi Bonastre’s knee block prevented a goal.

In the third quarter, PR Sreejesh made a crucial save, helping India maintain their 2-1 lead. Hardik Singh was forced off the field with a hand injury after a collision, though it was Manpreet who accidentally landed the ball on his foot.

Spain’s desperation led them to remove goalkeeper Calzado with three minutes remaining, but India’s defense held strong, securing the victory as Spain failed to equalize in the final moments.

 

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