Rotterdam, June 18: India produced a disciplined and clinical performance to defeat reigning world champions Germany 3-1 in the FIH Pro League, registering their first victory of the European leg while celebrating a landmark evening for veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh.
The experienced campaigner marked his record-breaking 413th international appearance in style as India outclassed one of the world’s strongest sides with a blend of defensive resilience, swift counter-attacks and ruthless finishing.
India made a bright start, pressing Germany high up the pitch and forcing errors in midfield. Their persistence paid off when Mandeep Singh broke the deadlock with a composed finish after a flowing team move, giving the Asian giants a deserved first-quarter lead.
Germany attempted to respond with sustained possession and earned several penalty corners, but the Indian defence stood firm. Goalkeeper Krishan Pathak produced a string of crucial saves while the defensive unit, marshalled brilliantly by captain Harmanpreet Singh, denied the Europeans any clear openings.
The visitors doubled their advantage after halftime through Shilanand Lakra, whose well-timed run and clinical finish capped another incisive Indian attack. Germany finally found a way back into the contest with a field goal that briefly shifted the momentum.
However, India refused to retreat. With Germany committing numbers forward in search of an equaliser, Nilakanta Sharma sealed the contest with a superb counter-attacking goal late in the fourth quarter, sparking jubilant celebrations on the Indian bench.
Beyond the result, the evening belonged to Manpreet Singh. The midfield stalwart became India’s most-capped men’s international hockey player with his 413th appearance, marking the historic milestone with an authoritative display that epitomised his leadership and composure.
The victory provides India with a timely confidence boost after a difficult start to the European campaign and underlines their growing ability to compete consistently against the world’s elite.
Result: India 3 (Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Nilakanta Sharma) bt Germany 1.
