The Indian men's hockey team slipped to defeat in their first game of the four-team tournament in Spain, which is being held to mark the 100th Anniversary Spanish Hockey Federation.
Despite a brave fight, India went down 1-2 to hosts Spain on Tuesday.
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The hosts were quick off the blocks and took the lead in the 11th minute through Pau Cunill. Thereafter, the defence withstood pressure from the Indians chasing the game, and managed to go into halftime with a 1-0 lead.
Spain doubled their lead in the 33rd minute when Joaquín Menini managed to deflect Jose Basterra's shot into the back of the net.
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With the score 2-0 in Spain's favour, India began to throw caution to the wind. A golden chance came as they were awarded a penalty corner but the Men in Blue were unable to convert and apply further pressure on their opponents.
Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh scored a consolation goal from a penalty corner in the 59th minute. By then though, it was too late and Spain managed to hang on for the win.
What next for Indian hockey in the Torneo del Centenario?
On 26 July, the Indian women's team will take the field at 2:30 PM IST to face England in their three-team competition. At 9:30 PM IST, the men will play the second of their four guaranteed fixtures, against the Netherlands.
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How to watch India play in the Torneo del Centenario
For Indian viewers, the Torneo del Centenario will not be broadcast on television. The men's matches against Netherlands and England will be streamed for free on Olympics.com while live streaming for other games will be available on the watch.hockey platform.
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