Paris Olympics 2024: Harmanpreet Singh Turns Saviour Again, India Draw 1-1 vs Argentina

Skipper Harmanpreet Singh rescued India by converting a last-minute penalty corner as they held former champions Argentina to a 1-1 draw in a Pool B hockey match of the Paris Olympics on Monday. India had fluffed as many as nine penalty corners before Harmanpreet found the net, firing the ball into the top corner. Argentina were left to rue the missed penalty stroke by Maico Casella in the 36th minute. It was Lucas Martinez, who had put his side ahead in the 22nd minute with a field goal and Harmanpreet, who had struck against New Zealand in the dying moments, found the net a minute before the final hooter. Harmanpreet did not feel that India fared poorly.

"To be honest, we created a lot of chances. There were lots of open slots and counter balls. Finishing is where we need to do better. Even in 50-50 balls we have to give 100 percent and in 100 per cent ball, we need to convert with effort. We will keep that in mind going forward," Harmanpreet told PTI.

The India captain was all praise for the Argentina defence.

"That is something we can learn, it was a good lesson from this game. They also play overhead and we do the same." Coming into the match after losing to Australia, the Rio Olympic champions were desperate for a win but had to be content with a draw despite dominating the proceedings for the better part of the match.

Argentina enjoyed possession as India struggled to penetrate the rival circle throughout.

The first quarter remained goalless with both teams failing to cash in on the short corners they got.

India continued with their aerial clearances but suffered due to the lack of finishing skills in the opposition 'D'.

The Argentines were also on the lookout for aerial balls but a clear sight of goal eluded them