~Abhishek (33′) and Shilanand Lakra (57′) scored for India in a hard-fought match ~
Ipoh, Malaysia, November 25, 2025: The Indian men’s hockey team put up a fighting performance but fell 2-3 to Belgium in a rain-affected match of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, which was rescheduled on Tuesday. Abhishek (33′) and Shilanand Lakra (57′) were on the scoresheet for India, while Roman Duvekot (17′, 57′) and Nicolas De Kerpel (45′) were the scorers for Belgium.
It was a determined start from India, with Belgium keeping their distance and enduring a period of early pressure. Indian goalkeeper Pawan was called into action either side of the restart and kept his side level as they steadily grew into the match. Belgium had their first real chance ten minutes into the match from a Penalty Corner and soon followed up with another, but the Indian defense held firm to ensure they remained level after the first quarter.
India started the second quarter on the front foot, stitching together neat passes as they searched for an opening. However, Belgium managed to take the lead against the run of play and broke Pawan’s resistance thanks to a goal from Roman Duvekot (17′). Looking for an immediate response, Dilpreet Singh completed a neat move for India but the goal was disallowed for dangerous play. Despite India pressing and pressing, Belgium retained a 1-0 lead at half-time.
India came out on top in the second half and earned the breakthrough when Abhishek (33′) finished off an excellent move to restore parity. With the momentum on their side, the Indians pumped Belgium in search of a second goal. Unfortunately, it was Belgium that took back the lead when Nicolas De Kerpel (45′) converted from a penalty corner.
They soon extended their lead when Roman Duvekot (46′) scored early in the fourth quarter, giving Belgium some breathing space. India once again looked for an immediate response and came close to a Penalty Corner with less than ten minutes to play. As time expired, Shilanand Lakra (57′) found the back of the net after a brilliant cross from Rabichandra Singh, giving India a ray of hope. With 90 seconds left, Mohit HS made a sensational stop to deny Belgium a fourth goal to keep India in the hunt. However, in this hard-fought match the equalizer escaped.
India will next play Malaysia on November 26 at 5:30 PM IST. All matches of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 will be broadcast live on FanCode.