A decided India fought bravely however misplaced to Belgium 2-3 in a rain-affected Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey match, right here on Tuesday.

Abhishek (thirty third) and Shilanand Lakra (57th) bought themselves on the scoresheet for India, whereas Roman Duvekot (seventeenth, 57th) and Nicolas De Kerpel (forty fifth) had been on track for Belgium.

The defeat comes after India, led by defender Sanjay, gained the opening recreation within the six-team occasion towards three-time champions South Korea 1-0 on Sunday.

A decided India weathered the early strain with Pawan doing job within the cage.

Belgium had their first actual alternative from a penalty nook 10 minutes into the competition, and shortly adopted it up with one other. However the Indian defence stood agency to make sure they stayed degree on the finish of the primary quarter.

Belgium took the lead towards the run of play, breaking Pawan’s resistance courtesy a aim from Roman Duvekot within the seventeenth minute.

India got here out firing on all cylinders within the second half and earned the breakthrough when Abhishek (thirty third) completed off an outstanding transfer to revive parity.

Belgium wrested again the lead with Nicolas De Kerpel (forty fifth) changing a penalty nook.

They quickly prolonged their benefit with Roman Duvekot (forty sixth) scoring early within the fourth quarter, giving Belgium some extra respiratory room.

With time ticking away, Shilanand Lakra (57th) discovered the again of the online after a superb cross from Rabichandra Singh, giving India a

glimmer of hope. With 90 seconds to go, Mohit HS made a sensational cease to disclaim Belgium a fourth aim to maintain India within the hunt. Nonetheless, the equaliser eluded them.