India broke a four-decade-long Olympic medal jinx in Tokyo and further solidified its position as a powerhouse in world hockey by clinching a second consecutive bronze medal at the Paris Olympics. The match, held on August 8, 2024, at the historic Yves du Manoir Stadium, marked a significant achievement for the Indian team, which showcased its resilience and determination under the scorching afternoon sun.
In a thrilling encounter, India, led by coach Craig Fulton—who took charge just three months before the Asian Games last year—adapted swiftly to a defense-first strategy. This approach proved successful as they edged past a tenacious Spanish team with a 2-1 victory in the bronze medal match. This triumph echoes India’s previous Olympic successes, with the last back-to-back medals dating back to the 1972 Munich Games.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other prominent figures extended their congratulations to the Indian hockey team for this remarkable achievement. This victory marked India’s fourth bronze and its 13th overall Olympic medal in hockey, serving as a fitting farewell to veteran goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh. Sreejesh, who had a distinguished two-decade-long international career, retired from the sport with this crowning accomplishment, earning a well-deserved send-off.
From the start, India’s intent was evident, with the team displaying significant improvements throughout the tournament. The players’ determination and potential were on full display as they pushed through the challenges posed by their opponents.
The opening quarter saw both teams testing each other’s defenses, with midfielders from both sides working tirelessly to create scoring opportunities. However, it was in the second period that the match truly came alive. Spain, showing greater urgency, launched multiple attacks on the Indian defense. Their efforts paid off when Pepe Clapes was tackled inside the Indian circle, leading to a penalty stroke. Spanish captain Marc Miralles made no mistake, sending the ball to the top right corner and beating Sreejesh to give Spain a 1-0 lead.
Spain continued to pressure the Indian defense, earning three penalty corners in quick succession. However, India’s Amit Rohidas played a crucial role as a rusher, ensuring the Indian goal remained unbreached. Spain nearly doubled their lead when Clapes sent a cross from the left, but Borja Lacalle missed the connection in front of the goal, keeping the scoreline unchanged.
As the match progressed, India regained control and earned two short corners of their own. Just before halftime, Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh stepped up and delivered a fast and low drag-flick, leveling the score at 1-1.
The third quarter saw India taking the lead early, thanks to Harmanpreet’s brilliance in converting another penalty corner. His shot, delayed slightly to throw off the Spanish defense, found its way past goalkeeper Luis Calzado, putting India ahead 2-1. Harmanpreet’s skillful use of his wrists to maneuver the ball along the carpet was a highlight of the match.
Throughout the remainder of the game, India displayed excellent coordination and defensive discipline. The team earned three more short corners while Spain secured two, but India’s composed defense, clean tackling, and quick clearances helped them win crucial moments and fend off Spain’s attacks.
As the clock wound down, Spain made a bold move by removing their goalkeeper Calzado with three minutes remaining, hoping to capitalize on their numerical advantage. They earned four consecutive short corners in the 59th minute, but India’s defenders, led by the indomitable Sreejesh, stood firm. Their determination and skill ensured that Spain could not breach the Indian wall, securing the bronze medal for India.
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among the Indian fans and players. The team gathered around a grounded Sreejesh, paying tribute to the legendary goalkeeper, often referred to as the “God of Indian hockey.” The significance of this victory, not just as an Olympic medal but as a testament to India’s resilience and growth in the sport, was palpable.
The result was a testament to the team’s hard work and strategic planning: India 2 (Harmanpreet 30-pc, 33-pc) defeated Spain 1 (Miralles 18-ps).
