In a thrilling conclusion to the men’s hockey tournament at the Paris 2024 Olympics, India emerged victorious against Spain with a 2-1 win in the bronze medal match on Thursday, August 8. The match at Stade Yves-du-Manoir saw India secure their 13th Olympic medal in hockey, and their fourth bronze, marking a significant achievement as they clinched back-to-back bronze medals for the first time in over five decades.
The star of the match was India’s captain, Harmanpreet Singh, who demonstrated his exceptional skill and composure by scoring both goals for India from penalty corners. Singh, who has been a standout performer throughout the tournament, now has 10 goals to his name and is poised to be the Games’ leading scorer in the men’s category.
This victory is especially historic as it marks the first time since the 1972 Munich Olympics that India has won consecutive medals in hockey. The last instance of back-to-back Olympic medals in this sport for India occurred in 1968 and 1972.
Veteran goalkeeper Parattu Raveendran Sreejesh, playing his final match for the Indian team, was instrumental in securing the bronze. Sreejesh, who has been a cornerstone of the team and has captained the side in the past, made several crucial saves, including a notable denial of Spanish captain Marc Miralles from penalty corners. His performance was a fitting farewell as he was celebrated by his teammates after the final whistle.
Harmanpreet Singh expressed his joy following the win: “I feel great. We create history again, back-to-back (bronze medals). It’s a big day for India and a big day for hockey. Today’s game was very good. We played as a team. Everyone delivered, especially our legend Sreejesh. It was his last game. It’s a memorable game for him, and a big achievement as a team.”
India’s triumph not only highlights their consistent excellence in hockey but also pays tribute to the enduring legacy of players like Sreejesh, who has been a beacon of skill and leadership throughout his career. As the team celebrates this remarkable achievement, they also honor the contributions of their stalwart goalkeeper, who has left an indelible mark on Indian hockey.
