Indian women’s hockey stumbles again - Deepika’s goal overshadowed by Belgium’s Brasseur brace

The Indian women's hockey team faced another setback, losing 5-1 to Belgium in the European leg of their tournament, marking their fifth consecutive defeat.

India took an early lead with a goal from Deepika at the 6th minute, but Belgium quickly turned the game around.

Belgium's dominance was clear as all five of their goals came from penalty corners, a critical factor in their victory. Helene Brasseur scored twice, at the 37th and 55th minutes, while Lucie Breyne (41'), Ambre Ballenghien (54'), and Charlotte Englebert (58') also found the net.

The match featured an intense 17 penalty corners awarded to Belgium, underscoring their tactical edge and execution.

This loss continues India's challenging run in the tournament, having previously lost two matches each to Australia and Argentina in London.

"Deepika gave India the lead before goals from Helene Brasseur, Lucie Breyne, Ambre Ballenghien, and Charlotte Englebert sealed victory for the hosts," highlighting Belgium's effective response.

The Indian team's inability to capitalize beyond their early goal and Belgium's proficiency in penalty corners proved decisive in the outcome, emphasizing areas for improvement as the tournament progresses.

Indian women's hockey team suffered a fifth consecutive defeat in the European leg as Belgium triumphed 5-1. Deepika scored early for India, but Belgium's Helene Brasseur netted twice, with all five Belgian goals coming from penalty corners, overshadowing India's initial lead.