Rio Games 2016: India outplays Argentina, qualifies for quarter finals

On the Day 4 of the Rio Olympics 2016, India outclassed Argentina by 2-1 in a group B match.

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Saurabh Kumar
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Rio Games 2016: India outplays Argentina, qualifies for quarter finals

Rio Games 2016: India vs Argentina(Getty Images)

On the Day 4 of the Rio Olympics 2016, India outclassed Argentina by 2-1 in a group B match. Two straight wins in three matches mean India has qualified for the quarter-finals. Just 24 hours earlier, India had missed three points by a whisker as mighty Germans found the back of net with just 0.31 seconds before the final hooter.

Indian team managed to convert the second penalty corner into goal in the first quarter. Chinglensana pounced on the opportunity and his powerful strike found the back of the net. Prior to the goal, India made little moves but ensured to keep bulk of the possession and not allowed Argentina to make any inroads.

The Men in white defence deserves a lot of praise as they not only kept the danger way but ensured not to concede a penalty corner for the first three quarters. Mid-fielder Kothajit Singh scored India’s second goal in the 35th minute and the fist pumping reactions from the Indian coach explained how much it meant for the side, going into the final quarter.

It took 7 years to beat the South American side as India had not won against Argentina since 2009 in hockey.

P Sreejesh led team had managed a 2-0 till the third quarter but Argentina completely dominated the 4th quarter. They scored their first goal in the final quarter of the match. In a span of three minutes India conceded three penalty corners but it was P Sreejesh who stood like a wall between the goal post and opponents.

India also missed three clean chances to score in the last quarter. The 3D dribbling and passing of the ball between Indian players were remarkable.  India will now take on Netherland on 11th August as they seat comfortably in the quarters for Rio Olympics 2016.

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