Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, Paris – Tuesday, 30 July 2024: In an electrifying Pool B match at the Paris Olympics, India secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Ireland. The game, played at the historic Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, showcased India’s tactical excellence and defensive strength, as they dominated each quarter of the match.
India vs Ireland Paris Olympics Pool B Hockey First Quarter: India Takes Early Lead
From the whistle, India asserted their dominance. The opening quarter saw Harmanpreet Singh score the first goal, setting the tone for the game. India’s strategic play and precision in attack allowed them to hold a 1-0 lead by the end of the first quarter, despite Ireland’s attempts to gain control.
India vs Ireland Paris Olympics Pool B Hockey Second Quarter: India Doubles the Advantage
Continuing their strong performance, India extended their lead in the second quarter. Harmanpreet Singh, demonstrating exceptional skill, converted a penalty stroke to make it 2-0. Ireland struggled to penetrate India’s well-organized defense, failing to capitalize on their scoring opportunities.
India vs Ireland Paris Olympics Pool B Hockey Third and Fourth Quarters: India Maintains Control
The third and fourth quarters mirrored the earlier stages of the match, with India maintaining their 2-0 lead throughout. Despite Ireland’s persistent efforts to break through, India’s defense, anchored by the exceptional goalkeeping of Parattu Raveendran Sreejesh, remained unyielding. Sreejesh’s flawless performance in goal was crucial in preserving India’s clean sheet.
India vs Ireland Paris Olympics Pool B Hockey Statistical Breakdown
Goals and Shooting Efficiency:
- India: Successfully scored 2 goals from 15 shots, with a shooting efficiency of 13%.
- Ireland: Struggled offensively, failing to score from 14 shots, resulting in a shooting efficiency of 0%.
Field Goals:
- India: Made 5 field goal attempts but did not convert any into goals.
- Ireland: Similarly, was unable to score from their 4 field goal attempts.
Penalty Corners and Strokes:
- India: Converted 1 goal from 9 penalty corners and 1 goal from 1 penalty stroke.
- Ireland: Was unable to score from 10 penalty corners and did not receive any penalty strokes.
Possession and Circle Penetrations:
- India: Had 51% possession and made 18 attacking circle penetrations.
- Ireland: Had 49% possession and 16 circle penetrations but could not translate these into goals.
Team Video Referrals:
- India: Successfully upheld 1 out of 1 video referrals.
- Ireland: Successfully upheld 3 out of 4 video referrals.
Disciplinary Record:
- Both teams received 1 green card each, reflecting a disciplined yet competitive encounter.
India vs Ireland Paris Olympics Pool B Hockey Highlights and Key Performances
Harmanpreet Singh was the standout player, scoring both of India’s goals and delivering under pressure. His penalty stroke goal in the second quarter was a highlight of the match. Meanwhile, Parattu Raveendran Sreejesh played a pivotal role in securing India’s victory, with a perfect save record and exceptional goalkeeping.
Ireland’s efforts were commendable, but they fell short in converting their chances. Despite a strong defensive performance from Irish goalkeeper David Harte, who made several key saves, Ireland was unable to find the back of the net.
India’s tactical brilliance and solid defensive play were key to their success in this match. As they advance in the tournament, they will look to build on this impressive performance and continue their pursuit of Olympic glory.
