Spain Knock Defending Hockey Champions Belgium Out of Paris Olympics

Paris: A dramatic upset unfolded on Sunday as Spain sensationally ousted defending Olympic champions Belgium from the men’s hockey competition at the Paris Olympics. In a thrilling quarter-final encounter, the Red Sticks emerged victorious with a 3-2 win, dashing Belgian hopes of a consecutive gold medal.

The match was a tightly contested affair for the majority of the game, with both teams showcasing their defensive prowess. The deadlock was finally broken in the third quarter when Jose Maria Basterra (40′) produced a moment of brilliance to give Spain the lead. Belgium responded swiftly through Arthur De Sloover (41′), levelling the scores before the end of the quarter.

The final stanza proved to be a nerve-wracking affair. Spain regained the initiative with goals from Marc Reyne (55′) and Marc Miralles (57′), putting them in a commanding position. A late penalty corner conversion by Alexander Hendrickx (58′) offered Belgium a glimmer of hope, but it was too little too late as Spain held on to secure their place in the semi-finals.