FIH Men’s Pro League: India Fall 0–2 to Spain in Hobart Opener

New Delhi:The Indian men’s hockey team began their Hobart leg campaign in the FIH Men’s Pro League with a 0–2 defeat against Spain in a tightly contested encounter. Despite showing sustained attacking intent and creating several promising chances, India were unable to convert, while Spain capitalised efficiently through goals in each half.

Spain took the lead early when Ignacio Abajo (6’) finished a swift counter-attack with a sharp deflection. India responded positively, maintaining structured build-up play and circulating possession effectively through midfield. They came close to equalising late in the first quarter, but Abhishek’s powerful effort was denied by a fine save from Spanish goalkeeper Luis Calzado.

The second quarter saw both sides exchange attacking moves without success. Spain earned a penalty corner in the 24th minute, but Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera made a crucial save to keep the deficit at one goal. Spain applied sustained pressure towards the end of the half, yet India’s disciplined defending ensured the score remained 1–0 at the break.

After halftime, Spain resumed aggressively and doubled their advantage in the 36th minute when Ignacio Cobos capitalised from close range inside the circle. Spain continued to press and won five penalty corners late in the third quarter, but India’s defence stood firm to prevent further damage, as the period ended 2–0 in Spain’s favour.

In the final quarter, India pushed forward in search of a comeback and earned their first penalty corner of the match but failed to convert. At the other end, goalkeeper Honnenahalli Shashikumar Mohith produced a strong one-on-one save to keep Spain at bay. India withdrew their goalkeeper in the closing minutes to introduce an extra outfield player, intensifying the pressure; however, Spain held on to secure a 2–0 victory.

India will next face hosts Australia in their second fixture of the Hobart leg of the FIH Men’s Pro League 2025–26 on Sunday.

— IANS