Bhubaneswar: India slumped to their third consecutive defeat in the FIH Hockey Pro League, going down 2-4 to Argentina after a difficult outing at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Rourkela, on Sunday.
The visitors were firmly in command during the opening half, repeatedly penetrating the circle and putting India under pressure. Argentina registered 12 circle entries and earned eight penalty corners before the break, while India managed only three entries.
India goalkeeper Pawan delivered a standout second quarter, producing several crucial saves and thwarting a dangerous baseline run just yards from his post.
Argentina eventually broke the deadlock in the 18th minute when Tomas Domene converted with a low drag flick. Tadeo Marcucci doubled the lead in the 27th minute, expertly controlling an overhead inside the circle before firing home. India’s lone clear opportunity before halftime sailed over the bar, leaving them trailing 0-2 at the interval, according to fih.hockey.
India began the third quarter with greater urgency and secured an early penalty corner, but the attempt was charged down. Argentina soon regained control and extended their advantage in the 43rd minute through Lucio Mendez, who finished from close range after receiving a baseline pass.
Marcucci added his second goal in the 49th minute, tapping in from a rebound off a penalty corner to stretch the lead to 4-0. India responded almost immediately, with Hardik Singh driving into the circle and sending a ball towards goal that Aditya Arjun Lalage deftly deflected in. Sanjay converted a penalty stroke in the 59th minute to narrow the margin, but the hosts were unable to mount a further comeback.
Despite a late push, India could not overturn the deficit as Argentina secured a deserved victory.
