All you need to know about Belgium, India’s Opponent Pool B Hockey Match at the Paris 2024 Olympics?

Add as a preferred source on Google

India is set to face Belgium in their fourth Pool B hockey match at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Both teams remain undefeated in the tournament so far, promising an exciting clash.

Currently ranked World No.1, Belgium has been a formidable force in the Paris Olympics 2024. Under the leadership of Félix Denayer, Belgium has won all three of their games, placing them at the top of Pool B.

They kicked off their campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Ireland, followed by a narrow 2-1 win against New Zealand. Their prowess was fully displayed in a commanding 6-2 triumph over Australia, which propelled them to the top spot in the world rankings.

Belgium has been prolific in front of goal, scoring a total of 10 goals in three matches, making them the third-highest-scoring team in the tournament. Tom Boon, their 34-year-old striker, is the joint-highest goal scorer of the competition, alongside Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh, with four goals each. Additionally, Alexander Hendrickx has contributed three goals, showcasing Belgium's depth in attacking talent.

Belgium is the defending Olympic champion, having clinched gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. They also won a silver medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics and their first-ever Olympic medal at the Antwerp 1920 Olympics. Their success extends beyond the Olympics, with a World Cup title and a European Championship to their name.

Head-to-Head Record

In historical encounters, Belgium has the upper hand with 20 wins out of 43 matches against India, who have secured 19 victories, while four matches have ended in draws. Notably, in their gold-winning run at Tokyo 2020, Belgium defeated India in the semi-finals, which forced India to settle for a bronze medal.

World No. 5, India, led by captain Harmanpreet Singh, has also had a strong start to their Paris 2024 campaign. Harmanpreet, who is the joint-highest goal scorer in the tournament, will be crucial in India’s efforts to break down Belgium's defense.

India’s teamwork and strategy have been commendable, and they will need to bring their A-game to overcome the defending champions. They are standing at the second spot in the Pool B table with two wins and a draw so far. A win against Belgium would propel them to the top spot in the table.