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

India's valiant effort concluded with disappointment as Belgium triumphed in a tense penalty shootout following a thrilling 3-3 draw. India had established an early advantage with a goal by Abhishek in the sixth minute. Belgium mounted relentless pressure throughout the match, earning numerous penalty corner opportunities, but India's defense remained resolute.The second quarter brought a shift in momentum.

Roman Duvekot equalized for Belgium, followed by Hugo Labouchere extending their lead with a powerful drag-flick from a penalty corner. Belgium took a 2-1 halftime lead.India came out strong after the break and tied the game through captain Harmanpreet Singh's superb drag-flick in the 31st minute. Belgium challenged the goal via video review, but the decision stood in India's favor.The third quarter saw both teams pushing hard, with Belgium dominating possession while India created chances of their own.

Despite Belgium having more control, India held their ground to keep the scores tied at 2-2 going into the final quarter.Belgium struck again in the 47th minute, scoring a field goal. A review for potential obstruction was conducted, but the initial decision was upheld, extending Belgium's lead to 3-2. India suffered another setback when veteran Manpreet Singh suffered a stick injury and was replaced for medical attention.With time running short, India substituted their goalkeeper for an additional outfield player and surged forward to chase an equalizer.

Their strategy proved successful in a dramatic fashion.Harmanpreet Singh added another goal in the 60th minute, leveling the score at 3-3 and sending the match to a penalty shootout. The shootout began poorly for India, with Harmanpreet's first attempt saved and Sukhjeet Singh similarly denied. Belgium converted both of its first attempts, while Vanasch thwarted Sukhjeet Singh.India eventually found their rhythm, with Shilanand Lakra opening the scoring, followed by a penalty stroke by Dilpreet Singh to bring the shootout to a 2-2 tie.

Belgium regained the lead through a penalty stroke after Mohith was penalized for a foul on Van Dessel, who converted. India found redemption with another goal by Abhishek, tying the shootout at 3-3.The decisive moment arrived when Duvekot scored for Belgium. India lodged a referral to challenge the decision, but the call stood.

Belgium secured the victory in the shootout, ending India's determined fight and securing their eighth-place finish in the World Cup.