Their campaign might be back on track following a massive win over lowly Canada, but defending champions India are still not out of the woods and would need to beat Poland in their final Pool B match to qualify for the quarterfinals of the FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup here on Saturday.\
The Indians, one of the pre-tournament favourites, were given a rude shock in their opener when France stunned them 5-4.
The defeat dealt a massive blow to India’s campaign and put paid to their hopes of topping their pool.
With one win and a defeat, India are currently placed second in Pool B ahead of Poland on goal difference. France, who have a perfect record till now, are set to top the pool. This means that in
the quarterfinals, India face the prospect of running into European giants and top seed Belgium, who are likely top Pool A.
Given the scenario, complacency has no place in the Indian scheme of things if they wish to defend their title.
The Indians were slow to get off the blocks in the tournament and lacked intent and purpose against France, leading to their loss.
But against Canada on Thursday, the hosts roared back and looked more organised. From here on, India will need to win every match to reclaim the title, a fact which chief coach Graham Reid is well aware of.
“…But we can’t do anything about that now (loss against France). If we have to win back-to-back titles, we will have to beat every team henceforth,” Reid had said.