India endured a frustrating start to its FIH Pro League 2025-26 campaign, slumping to a 1-3 defeat against Belgium at the Birsa Munda Stadium in Rourkela on Wednesday.
With only four home matches scheduled this year, the fixture carried added significance for the host. But in front of a packed crowd, India’s performance lacked sharpness and cohesion, particularly in attack. Erratic passing and missed connections inside the circle proved costly against a disciplined Belgian side.
The opening quarter was evenly contested, with both teams earning a penalty corner and creating half chances. However, a lapse in concentration shifted momentum in the 23rd minute. A misplaced pass from Harmanpreet Singh was intercepted by Thomas Crols, who surged past a static Indian defence before setting up Nelson Onana for a clinical finish.
India responded before halftime. In the 29th minute, a penalty corner saw Amit Rohidas fire toward goal, only for Guillaume Hellin to get a stick to the ball. The rebound fell kindly to Shilanand Lakra, who reacted swiftly to slot home the equaliser and reignite hopes in the stands.
Yet, the change of ends did little to alter India’s struggles. The midfield lacked presence, and the forwards failed to combine effectively inside the circle, often shooting wide under pressure.
Belgium regained control late in the match. In the 53rd minute, Crols stepped into space just inside the circle and unleashed a reverse hit to restore the lead. As India pushed forward in search of parity, defensive gaps widened. Arno Van Dessel capitalised three minutes from time, sealing the victory with a third goal.
India avoided a heavier defeat thanks to determined defending marshalled by Rohidas and a series of impressive saves from goalkeeper Pawan Malik. But resilience at the back could not mask the shortcomings up front.
For India, the loss serves as an early warning. With limited opportunities at home, sharper execution and better midfield control will be essential if it hopes to build momentum in the Pro League season ahead.
