Champions Trophy Hockey: Germany stun India

The ninth-ranked India played sheer determination and courage against third-ranked Germany and almost clinched a draw before Fuchs Florian scored the winning goal in the dying moments of the match. The goal came in the last minute and India ended up on the losing side in their first match at the Champions Trophy Hockey in Bhubaneswar.

India have never won the Champions Trophy since its inception in 1978. On the other hand, Germany have won this tournament nine times. India will play their second match against Argentina on Sunday. Indian goalkeeper Sreejesh was adjudged ‘Man of the Match.

Earlier, England beat defending champions and World No. 1 Australia 3-1 in the inaugural match. For England, debutant Ward (27th and 56th minutes) scored two goals, while Alastair Brogdon scored one goal (6th minute). For Australia, Chris Ciriello scored the lone goal in the 54th minute.

In another match, Belgium beat Pakistan 2-1. For Belgium, Tanguy Cosyns and Thomas Briels scored the goals. Muhammad Imran scored the lone goal for Pakistan from a penalty stroke. In another match, the Netherlands had thrashed Argentina 3-0.