India Begin Hockey World Cup With Win

The Indian men’s hockey team made a winning start to the Hockey World Cup in the Netherlands. India defeated Wales 3-1 in their Pool D opener, with captain Harmanpreet Singh playing a key role. India earned five penalty corners and converted three of them into goals. Sanjay opened the scoring in the 8th minute before Harmanpreet doubled the lead in the 11th minute.

Neither team scored in the second quarter. Harmanpreet struck again in the 43rd minute to put India firmly in control. Wales pulled one goal back through Sam Welsh in the 56th minute, but India held on to secure a comfortable 3-1 victory. India will next face England on August 17.