Spain turned the game around to beat India 3-1, avenging their loss in last year's Paris Olympics bronze medal match.

India Takes the Lead

The match started evenly, but Spain dominated the first half. However, India shocked their opponents when Sukhjeet Singh scored a reverse strike in the 25th minute, putting India ahead 1-0. India also had several penalty corners but couldn’t extend the lead. Then, just three minutes later, Spain’s Borja Lacalle equalized with a simple tap-in, making it 1-1.

Spain’s Comeback

In the third quarter, Spain earned many penalty corners but failed to capitalize. Eventually, they found their breakthrough in the 38th minute. Ignacio Cobos scored his first international goal, converting a recycled penalty corner to give Spain a 2-1 lead. Meanwhile, Spanish goalkeeper Luis Calzado made a crucial reflex save, keeping Spain in the lead as the match entered the final quarter.

Spain Seals the Win

Spain worked to control the game’s tempo in the fourth quarter. India kept up their strong attack but couldn’t find the equalizer. Then, in the 56th minute, Bruno Avila scored with a low drag flick, giving Spain a two-goal cushion. India pulled their goalkeeper in a final push, but they couldn’t break through Spain’s defense.

Player of the Match

Gerard Clapes of Spain was named the player of the match. He said, “It’s important for the points. We have played well, good sensations, good feelings, so good.”