Belgium’s hockey heroes thwarted by India

A 4-2 defeat to hosts India on Thursday meant Belgium failed to reach their first ever Hockey Champions Trophy semi-finals.

The Red Lions, taking part in only their second Champions Trophy, took an early two goal lead thanks to Felix Denayer and Sebastien Dockier. But buoyed by the 7,000-strong home crowd at the Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, the hosts levelled scores within 10 minutes. The Belgians battled to restore their lead but instead opened up their defence, conceding two more. India’s victory means that they, rather than Belgium, go to meet Pakistan in a hotly-awaited semi-final.

Belgium, ranked fifth in the world, had earlier emerged in second place from their pool, after beating Pakistan and drawing with England and Australia.

India’s win avenged upon their 2-3 defeat against Belgium in this year's World Cup at The Hague.