(Hockey news) Olympic 2021 Live Update: Eight time Olympic champions India defeated New Zealand 3-2 thanks to Harmanpreet Singh’s brace from penalty corners and Rupinder Singh’s penalty stroke conversion, to begin their Olympics campaign with a win.

Despite trailing due to Kane Russell’s opening goal, the Indian men’s hockey team showed true spirit and teamwork not just in attack but also in defense to ward off the New Zealand attempts. Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh displayed some fantastic saves to deny the Kiwi’s an opportunity for a late equalizer in a compact defensive performance.

The nail biting finish was made even more tense when New Zealand, who trailed by two goals pulled one back with Stephen Jenness who capitalized on a lapse in concentration by the Indian defense. Despite a late scare, the Indians displayed their nerves of steel amidst the heat and humidity to seal a win.

India will now face Australia with rejuvenated confidence after this solid performance.

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