Hockey: Harmanpreet Singh downplays past victories ahead of Pakistan clash
What's the story
Indian hockey team captain, Harmanpreet Singh, has dismissed the significance of previous victories over Pakistan.
The two unbeaten teams are set to face off in the 2024 edition of the Asian Champions Trophy on September 14.
Despite India's impressive record of winning 16 out of 25 matches against Pakistan since 2013, Harmanpreet believes that past results will not influence their upcoming match.
Here's more.
Rivalry recognition
Harmanpreet acknowledges Pakistan's potential in upcoming match
Singh, who has scored 16 goals against Pakistan since his debut in 2015, acknowledged the strength of the rival team.
"Past results will not matter when we take on a team like Pakistan. They are a tough side and have the potential to bounce back at any stage in the game," he told Times Of India.
He also emphasized the need for emotional control during this highly anticipated match.
Personal connections
Singh highlights personal bond with Pakistani players
Singh revealed his personal connection with some Pakistani players, stating that they share a special bond.
"I have been playing with some of the players in the Pakistan team since my junior days and we share a special bond with them. They are like my brothers," he said.
However, he clarified that this relationship would not affect their competitive spirit on the field.
Global anticipation
Singh anticipates global interest in India-Pakistan match
Singh also expressed his belief that the upcoming match between India and Pakistan would attract global attention.
"In world hockey, the rivalry the two teams share is unparalleled and I am sure fans across the globe will be waiting for an India-Pakistan match," he stated.
This statement underscores the high stakes and intense rivalry associated with this fixture.
Past triumphs
India's recent victories over Pakistan in hockey
India's recent victories over Pakistan include a 10-2 win at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year and a 4-0 triumph in the previous ACT held in Chennai.
They also secured a 1-1 affair at the Asia Cup in Jakarta in 2022 and a thrilling 4-3 victory in the 2021 ACT in Dhaka.
These results highlight India's strong performance against their traditional rivals.
2024 ACT
India and Pakistan's performance in 2024 ACT
India and Pakistan have both qualified for the semi-finals. Having played four matches each, the Indian men's hockey team has maintained a 100% record. India own 12 points with 19 goals scored and three conceded.
Pakistan have won two matches and drawn two. They have scored 11 goals so far in addition to conceding six.
The top four teams in the round-robin group stage will make it to the finals.
2024 Paris
India won bronze medal at 2024 Paris Olympics
The Indian men's hockey team finished its hard-fought journey with a smile at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
India, who were beaten 3-2 in the semis by Germany, produced a stunning display against Spain in the bronze medal match. Harmanpreet's two goals meant India won the contest by a 2-1 margin after having earlier gone down.
The team won consecutive Olympic Games medals for first time since 1972.
India had won the bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as well.