Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 21: The India men's national field hockey team went down 0–2 against the Spain men's national field hockey team in a tightly fought encounter, as Spain made their chances count while India failed to convert sustained attacking pressure into goals.

Spain struck early through Ignacio Abajo in the sixth minute, who deftly redirected the ball into the net following a swift counter-attack. India responded with composed ball movement and attacking intent, creating several openings. Abhishek came close to levelling the score late in the first quarter, but Spanish goalkeeper Luis Calzado pulled off a sharp save to deny him.

The second quarter saw end-to-end action, with both sides earning opportunities but lacking the finishing touch. Spain won a penalty corner midway through the period, only for Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera to produce a crucial stop and keep the deficit at one. Spain maintained pressure in the closing stages of the half, but India’s defence stood firm, ensuring the score remained 1–0 at the break.

After halftime, Spain resumed with intensity and were rewarded in the 36th minute when Ignacio Cobos found space inside the circle and fired home from close range to double the lead. The Spanish side continued to press aggressively, earning multiple penalty corners, yet India defended resolutely to prevent further damage.

Determined to mount a comeback, India dominated possession in the final quarter and secured their first penalty corner of the match, though they were unable to capitalise. Goalkeeper H.S. Mohith delivered a key save in a one-on-one situation to keep India in contention. In a bold late move, India withdrew their goalkeeper to add an extra outfield player in the final minutes, but Spain’s disciplined defence held strong, sealing a 2–0 victory.

India will now face hosts Australia men's national field hockey team in their next fixture of the Hobart leg of the FIH Men's Pro League 2025–26 on Sunday.