WC: Belgium break Indian hearts in shootout as Harmanpreet’s side finishes eighth

India's valiant effort came to an abrupt end as Belgium triumphed in a nail-biting penalty shootout following a 3-3 draw. Belgium took the opening lead in the sixth minute with an impressive goal from Abhishek. Despite Belgium's relentless pressure, India's defense managed to keep them at bay. The match shifted dramatically during the second quarter.

Roman Duvekot equalized for Belgium with a close-range finish, followed by Hugo Labouchere scoring for Belgium with a powerful drag-flick from a penalty corner, putting them ahead 2-1 at halftime. India's Harmanpreet Singh levelled the score in the 31st minute with a superb drag-flick from a penalty corner. The third quarter remained fiercely contested, with Belgium maintaining possession and creating chances.

Despite Belgium's advantage, India held their ground to keep the scores tied at 2-2 going into the final quarter. Belgium struck again in the 47th minute when Nicolas de Kerpel found the back of the net, putting them ahead 3-2. India suffered another setback when Manpreet Singh sustained a stick injury to the face and was substituted for medical attention.

With time running out, India fielded an extra player and capitalized on their gamble, with Harmanpreet Singh sealing the match by scoring again in the 60th minute, making the score 3-3. The shootout drama finally ended India's hopes as Belgium claimed victory after a remarkable contest.