12 Aug, 2024 Hockey at Paris 2024 came to a conclusion on 9 August, with a historic double gold for Netherlands, as the men’s and women’s teams of a nation won the hockey gold in the same edition of an Olympics for the very first time! Germany men and China women added a silver medal to their trophy cabinets, while India men and Argentina women made it back-to-back medal finishes, winning the bronze medals. The competition for medals was wide open, and there were plenty of surprises and upsets as the jostling for medal finishes shook up the world rankings. Join us as we take a look at the updated rankings, following the conclusion of the Olympic Games Paris 2024. In the men’s world rankings, Olympic champions Netherlands (3168) stand at the top of the rankings. Netherlands came into the games in the top spot, but dropped to third in the pool stage following a draw against Great Britain and a loss to Germany, but four consecutive wins to finish with the title, sees them climb back into the first place. Germany (3035) once again showed their big tournament prowess, as they came into the event ranked fifth in the world, but registered big wins over the likes of Netherlands, Great Britain, Argentina and India to climb into second place in the world rankings, on the way to the silver medal. England* (2973), Belgium (2959) and India (2849) complete the top-5 places. Belgium in particular will be disappointed with their quarter final exit, coming in as defending champions. The Red Lions had a near perfect pool stage with 4 wins and a draw that had catapulted them to the top of the world rankings, but a loss to Spain in the quarterfinal saw them drop down to fourth. Germany’s ascent also sees England drop down one spot from their pre-Olympics ranking of second place, to third, while India have climbed one spot up bridging the gap to the top-4, following a second consecutive bronze medal finish at the Olympics. Australia (2714), Argentina (2643) and Spain (2470) find themselves in the sixth, seventh and eighth positions respectively. Australia began the Olympics ranked fourth in the world, and climbed into the top-3 after the first win over Argentina, but a disappointing campaign where they endured losses to Belgium, India and got knocked out by Netherlands in the quarterfinals, sees them drop down to sixth, less than 100 points clear of Argentina in seventh. Spain fell just short of the bronze medal and while their ranking remains unchanged, the gap to seventh place is less than half of what it was before Paris 2024. Ireland (2078), France (2016), South Africa (1982) and New Zealand (1958) take up the ninth to twelfth spots in the world rankings with all four teams competing at the Olympics, but failing to make the quarterfinals. Ireland’s victory over New Zealand in their final pool stage game, lifted them two spots into ninth place at the expense of France who ended their pool stage of the games with just one point following a draw against Spain. South Africa moved up one place thanks to their draw against Great Britain and win over France, while New Zealand’s failure to collect any points at the Olympics sees them drop two spots down from tenth. In the women’s world rankings, Netherlands (3641) remain infallible, adding a fourth Olympic gold medal from the last five editions of the Games! While China gave them a big scare in the gold medal match, Netherlands prevailed in the end, completing a perfect campaign with 8 wins in 8 matches. Argentina (3059) continue to remain in a distant second place, following their bronze medal performance at Paris 2024. Belgium (2852) climbed one place to third in the world after narrowly missing out on their first ever Olympic medal, with back-to-back shoot-out losses to China in the semi-final, and Argentina in the bronze medal match, but it was still an impressive campaign from the Red Panthers in just their second ever Olympic appearance! Germany (2739) exited in the quarterfinals at Paris 2024, a result which saw them drop down one spot, into fourth. Australia (2720) continue to remain in fifth place and similar to Germany, would be disappointed in their quarterfinal exit, following a stellar pool phase where they finished top of their pool with 4 wins and a draw. China’s (2567) incredible run in Paris 2024, which saw them come within a whisker of claiming the gold medal, has resulted in a two-place climb in the world rankings table as they now sit in the sixth spot, ahead of England* (2419) and Spain (2322) in seventh and eighth respectively. India (2087) and New Zealand (2024), who missed out on Olympic qualification, round out the top-10 world rankings. Among the teams that competed at the Olympics outside of top-10, are Japan (2010) in eleventh place, narrowly trailing New Zealand. United States (1898) were extremely competitive throughout the pool stage of the Olympics and registered points through a draw against Spain and a win over South Africa, and find themselves in thirteenth place in the world rankings. South Africa (1403) and France (1371) both ended Paris 2024 without scoring any points and are placed twentieth and twenty second in the world respectively. Both teams have plenty of positives to take away from the Olympics though, with this being the first appearance for France at an Olympics, while South Africa, given their very young squad, were competitive, not losing by more than one goal in any of their matches except one, which came in the form of a 4-2 loss to Argentina, where South Africa were leading 2-1 until the final ten minutes! *England competed as a part of Great Britain in the Olympic Games Paris 2024. To see the complete FIH World Rankings, please click here. The rankings calculations model that FIH introduced on 1st January 2020 moved away from the previous tournament-based rankings system to a dynamic,

Continue Reading →

09 Aug, 2024 Paris, France – Day 14: The Netherlands women are the Olympic champions for a record extending fifth time thanks to a shoot-out win over China, a team that held the lead for the vast majority of an extraordinary gold medal match at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. The result means that the Netherlands have become the first nation in history to secure both the men’s and women’s Olympic gold medals at the same Games. Despite the reigning Olympic, World, European and FIH Hockey Pro League champions starting as heavy favourites, China stunned their illustrious opponents and the vast swathes of Orange clad fans when Chen Yi touched home the opening goal just six minutes into the contest. Remarkably, it was a lead that the continental champions of Asia – who were beaten 3-0 by the Netherlands in the pool phase – held until the 51st minute when tournament top scorer Yibbi Jansen finally made the breakthrough, firing home her ninth penalty corner of the competition to send a ferociously contested match into a shoot-out. The one-on-ones were dominated by the Dutch, with Pien Sanders, Maria Verschoor and Marijn Veen all scoring while goalkeeper Anne Veenendaal produced three astonishing saves to seal the gold medal in the most dramatic of circumstances. The Netherlands have now won four of the last five Olympic gold medals on offer, an astonishing record from one of the most dominant sporting teams the world has ever seen. It was a special moment for Netherlands head coach Paul Van Ass, who guided the team to glory just one day after his son, Seve, won gold as a player with the men’s team. Speaking after the match, Van Ass said: “It was a very close game. Well, we attacked, and they defended. But because they got a goal so early, they had the time to defend. And they defended very well. And we couldn’t convert a lot of penalty corners. If you (get) five, six penalty corners, and you (score) one or two, then the game is open, and they have to come, but we couldn’t do that. And that was very close. But the girls played good hockey.” For Yibbi Jansen, she has followed in the footsteps of her father by becoming a hockey Olympic gold medallist, with Ronald Jansen – who was watching in the stands – playing in goal for the Netherlands men’s teams that became champions at Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000. While the Netherlands will be deservedly praised for their astonishing achievement, the contribution made by China to this occasion was colossal. The continental champions of Asia went toe-to-toe with their opponents throughout, fully deserving their regular time draw against the mighty Dutch in a gripping match. Thanks to the tactical brilliance of Alyson Annan – an all-time great player who guided the Netherlands women to the Olympic title at Tokyo 2020 – China are once again a global force, with their performance in Paris matching the silver medal they won at Beijing 2008, their home Olympic Games. They have earned the respect of the world, a fact proven by the incredible reception they received from masses of Dutch supporting fans at Yves-du-Manoir. “Almost, huh? We were really close”, said Annan shortly after the match. “We fought hard. Getting to a shoot-out is pretty good. Look, six months ago, a year ago, two years ago, we wouldn’t have thought we’d be here. This is just amazing. “I wasn’t surprised (it was so close)”, continued Annan. “I thought we were capable of this. I thought that we could win. We did everything we could. They were just better in the shoot-out today.” Earlier in the day, Argentina women won the bronze medal by overcoming Belgium in a shoot-out after a pulsating match finished 2-2. For the second time in this competition, Argentina goalkeeper Cristina Cosentino produced a sparking performance in the one-on-ones, being beaten just once in four Belgian attempts with Lara Casas, teenager Zoe Diaz de Armas and Sofia Cairo scoring the vital goals. The result gave Las Leonas their sixth Olympic medal in their last seven appearances, having claimed silver at Sydney 2000, London 2012 and Tokyo 2020 as well as additional bronze medals at Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008. It was a cruel end to an exceptional tournament for Belgium, who miss out on a medal by finishing fourth. “I am really happy because I think this team deserves everything”, said Argentina’s Agustina Albertarrio after the match. “We played eight games and we lost only once, against the best team, which is the Netherlands. I am really happy because this team gives everything, but I also want to congratulate Belgium because they have an amazing team. They have a lot of fight, it was really hard (playing against them). Now we want to celebrate, enjoy this moment with our families and the fans, who are amazing.” Further information and statistics about the match can be found here.   Notable figures attending the Olympic hockey on the final day of action at Yves-du-Manoir were Princess Elisabeth of Belgium and Netherlands Prime Minister Dick Schoof.   The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 took place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions featured 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. Olympic Games Paris 2024 – Hockey 9 August 2024 – Day 14 Women’s medal matches – Friday 9 August 2024 (all times CEST) 14:00 – Bronze: Argentina 2-2 Belgium (3-1 after shoot-out) 20:00 – Gold: Netherlands 1-1 China (3-1 after shoot-out) Final Standings Women Gold: The Netherlands Silver: China Bronze: Argentina 4: Belgium 5: Australia 6: Germany 7: Spain 8: Great Britain 9: USA 10: Japan 11: South Africa 12: France Men Gold: The Netherlands Silver: Germany Bronze: India 4: Spain 5: Belgium 6: Australia 7: Great Britain 8: Argentina 9: South Africa 10: Ireland 11: France 12: New Zealand Pool standings overviews Women: click here.  Men: click here. Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: Hockey @Paris2024:

Continue Reading →

09 Aug, 2024 Paris, France – Day 14: Argentina women have won the bronze medal at the Olympic Games Paris 2024, overcoming Belgium in a shoot-out after a pulsating match finished with the scores locked at 2-2. For the second time in this competition, Argentina goalkeeper Cristina Cosentino sparkled in the one-on-ones, beaten just once in four Belgian attempts with Lara Casas, teenager Zoe Diaz de Armas and Sofia Cairo scoring the vital goals. Remarkably, Cosentino only conceded one goal in the two shoot-outs here in Paris, keeping a clean sheet during Argentina’s quarter-final triumph over Germany on Monday (5 August). The result gave Las Leonas their sixth Olympic medal in their last seven appearances, having claimed silver at Sydney 2000, London 2012 and Tokyo 2020 as well as additional bronze medals at Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008. It was a cruel end to an exceptional tournament for Belgium, who miss out on the podium by finishing fourth. “I am really happy because I think this team deserves everything”, said Argentina’s Agustina Albertarrio after the match. “We played eight games and we lost only once, against the best team, which is the Netherlands. I am really happy because this team gives everything, but I also want to congratulate Belgium because they have an amazing team. They have a lot of fight, it was really hard (playing against them). Now we want to celebrate, enjoy this moment with our families and the fans, who are amazing.” The thousands of Argentine and Belgian fans packed into the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium were treated to an entertaining penultimate match of the competition. With Princess Elisabeth of Belgium watching on, Emma Puvrez put the Red Panthers ahead when Argentina failed to effectively clear a penalty corner, slapping home for a first quarter lead. Argentina hit back with second quarter goals from the two Agustinas, Gorzelany roofing a penalty corner before Albertarrio’s open play tap-in made the score 2-1. However, Belgium restored parity less than a minute later, with Justine Rasir netting from close range. Both goalkeepers made superb saves in the latter stages of the match, with Belgium’s Aisling D’Hooghe producing two stunning penalty corner blocks in the final seconds to force the shoot-out. However, it was to be Argentina’s day, with Cosentino once again grabbing the headlines. Further information and statistics about the match can be found here.   The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. Olympic Games Paris 2024 – Hockey 9 August 2024 – Day 14 Women’s medal matches – Friday 9 August 2024 (all times CEST) 14:00 – Bronze: Argentina 2-2 Belgium (3-1 after shoot-out) 20:00 – Gold: Netherlands vs China Final Standings Women Gold: Silver: Bronze: Argentina 4: Belgium 5: Australia 6: Germany 7: Spain 8: Great Britain 9: USA 10: Japan 11: South Africa 12: France Men Gold: The Netherlands Silver: Germany Bronze: India 4: Spain 5: Belgium 6: Australia 7: Great Britain 8: Argentina 9: South Africa 10: Ireland 11: France 12: New Zealand Pool standings overviews Women: click here.  Men: click here. Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: World’s first carbon zero hockey turf to be used at Paris 2024 Olympics Unsung Heroes of Olympic Hockey: the Umpires FIH add portrayal guidelines to promote gender equality Great Britain Edges South Africa in Tight Olympic Hockey Battle

08 Aug, 2024 Paris, France – Day 13: A sensational goalkeeping performance from Pirmin Blaak helped the Netherlands men become Olympic champions for the first time since Sydney 2000, inspiring a dramatic shoot-out victory over Germany in front of a sell-out crowd at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. After a tension-filled thriller between the two great rivals of European hockey finished locked at 1-1, 36-year-old Blaak – the current FIH Hockey Stars Goalkeeper of the Year – produced three breath-taking saves as the Oranje took a 3-1 win, securing their first men’s Olympic gold medal in 24 years. The result means that the Netherlands remain on course for a Dutch double in the Olympic hockey competition at Paris 2024, with the women competing in their own gold medal match, against China, on Friday (9 August). The Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium was a cauldron of noise from start to finish, with both teams being well represented by their passion-fuelled fans. There was little between the two teams for much of the match, with clear-cut scoring chances few and far between. However, that all changed one minute into a chaotic fourth and final quarter, with Netherlands captain Thierry Brinkman – who today joined his father Jacques Brinkman as a Olympic hockey gold medallist – touching home from close range after superb build-up play from Koen Bijen. World champions Germany would have fallen even further behind were it not for a stunning goal-line clearance from Gonzalo Peillat, who showed lightning quick reactions to deny Bijan’s clever chip. Just one minute after Peillat’s remarkable intervention, Thies Prinz smashed home the equaliser from a penalty corner, restoring parity with ten minutes of the match remaining. While Germany arguably had the better of the final minutes, the shoot-out was all about Blaak. Despite both Jonas de Geus and Joep de Mol being superbly denied by Germany goalkeeper Jean-Paul Danneberg, Blaak looked almost untouchable in the one-on-ones, brilliantly saving efforts from Niklas Wellen, Hannes Müller and Thies Prinz. Although Justus Weigand did eventually beat him, goals from Brinkman and Thijs van Dam left the Netherlands, the reigning European champions, needing just one goal to secure a third Olympic title after winning gold at Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000. The responsibility fell on the shoulders of 22-year-old Duco Telgenkamp, with the rising star of Dutch hockey making no mistake with a wonderful backhand finish to spark wild celebrations from the Dutchmen on the field and the thousands of Oranje fans in the stadium. It was a heartbreaking moment for Germany, a side that has performed brilliantly at these Olympic Games. “The Olympics is, for me, the only way to really write sports history”, said Netherlands coach Jeroen Delmee, a key player in the Oranje teams that won Olympic gold at Atlanta and Sydney. “This is such a big event. Fighting in eight games, every game, to reach the final, and then winning the final. It’s not even a medal, but for me it is the history you write as a team. And we did it like this. It’s unbelievable.” When asked what winning the men’s hockey Olympic gold medal will mean for people back home in the Netherlands, Delmee said:“This will be an enormous boost. We know we have an outstanding women’s team that is winning every tournament – year in, year out. It’s exceptional (the way) they perform, but it was more or less about time that also the men started joining the women again, and putting Dutch hockey on the map. “I think we succeeded. The way we play, what we’ve been doing the last three years, the whole project we’ve been running. People start celebrating again, they love the way we play, the energy we put in there, the effort. That’s maybe even more important.” Earlier in the day, India men fought back from a goal down to overcome a monumental challenge from Spain, with team captain Harmanpreet Singh scoring twice to help India to their second successive Olympic bronze medal on a scorching afternoon at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. It was a fairytale ending to the playing career of India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who made numerous crucial blocks against the Red Sticks to win an Olympic medal in his final appearance for his country. Sreejesh – a two-time FIH Hockey Stars Goalkeeper of the Year who collected 336 caps – cut an emotional figure at the end of the contest as players and staff celebrated and honoured a player who represented India with such distinction over an 18-year international career. “I feel great”, said India captain Harmanpreet. “We create history again, back-to-back (bronze medals). It’s a big day for India and a big day for hockey. We were here for gold, but unfortunately, that dream was shattered.” Commenting on the match, Harmanpreet – whose 10-goal haul saw him finish at the competition’s highest scorer – was incredibly proud about how his team performed today. “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. He gave everything to hockey in India, but now it’s his time. He is not going anywhere. He is here (pointing to his heart).” Further information and statistics about the matches can be found here.   Notable figures attending the Olympic hockey at Yves-du-Manoir on Day 12 included Olaf Scholz, the Chancellor of Germany, and Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries. On Friday 9 August, the women’s gold, silver and bronze medallists will all be decided at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium, with Argentina playing Belgium in the bronze medal match at 14:00 CEST before the Netherlands and China fight for gold at 20:00. A preview for these matches can be found here. The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and

Continue Reading →

08 Aug, 2024 The fourteenth and final day of a magnificent hockey competition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 takes place on Friday (9 August), where the winners of the gold, silver and bronze medals will all be revealed at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. At 14:00 CEST, Argentina will be aiming to finish their competition on a high when they take on Belgium in the bronze medal match. The game that will decide who takes home the gold medal takes place at 20:00, as hot favourites the Netherlands aim to successfully defend the Olympic title they won at Tokyo 2020 against China. We take a quick look at the two medal matches in the women’s competition. Argentina v Belgium – 14:00 CEST Argentina have the chance to win a sixth Olympic medal in the last seven Olympics, with their only failure to secure a place on the podium coming at Rio 2016, where they finished seventh. Although they have never won gold, their haul of three silvers and two bronzes since Sydney 2000 provides a reminder on just how consistent Las Leonas are at this level.  Standing in Argentina’s way are Belgium, a team on the verge of making history. The Red Panthers have only appeared on the Olympic stage once before Paris 2024, finishing 11th at London 2012. While already their greatest Olympic achievement, a fourth place finish would not satisfy a hugely ambitious group of players who hold themselves to the highest standards. Coach comments Fernando Ferrara (ARG), after losing their semi-final against the Netherlands: “Now we have to rest, and then analyse whichever opponent it is. But mostly, try to let this match go as soon as possible. We have to regret it today but from tomorrow have our (heads) on the next match, recovering and focusing on how to approach it.” Raoul Ehren (BEL), after losing their semi-final against China: “Tonight it will be silent on the bus and there will be some tears, I think. Tomorrow the tears will dry and we will recover, and we will make a plan to beat Argentina. And I’m sure that we will go for that on Friday afternoon. So we will be ready.” Netherlands v China – 20:00 CEST The gold medal game between the Netherlands and China is a replay of the Beijing 2008 final, a match which the Oranje won 2-0. The Netherlands – the reigning Olympic, World, European and FIH Hockey Pro League champions – proved simply too strong for semi-final opponents Argentina, claiming a 3-0 triumph over their fierce rivals to reach the Olympic final for the sixth successive Games. A win against China on Friday would be their fifth Olympic title overall, and a fourth gold medal in the last five Olympic Games. They have been in imperious form, and in competition top scorer Yibbi Yansen they have a player who has registered eight goals in seven matches, all from penalty corners. While it is clear that the Netherlands will take some stopping here in Paris, China have proven time and time again that they can upset the odds. Despite finishing fourth in Pool A, China claimed a stunning quarter-final victory over Pool B winners Australia before showing huge character to defeat semi-final opponents Belgium in a dramatic shoot-out. They also have a tactical mastermind on their side in the shape of head coach Alyson Annan, who guided the Netherlands to Olympic gold in Tokyo. Annan will have taken plenty of notes from China’s 3-0 pool defeat at the hands of the Oranje, ensuring that her team will be more than ready for the challenge facing them. Player perspectives Laura Nunnink (NED), before learning who they would face in the final: “We’re going to watch the game (the other semi-final) and see who it’s going to be. We have beaten them both before (in this tournament) but it’s a different game. I’m just really excited to be in the final.” Ou Zixia (CHN): “Our aim is definitely to go for gold. We must work hard. We have secured a medal but we are gunning for gold. I know that our opponents are extremely strong but that won’t stop us from dreaming of gold.” Medal Matches – Friday 9 August 2024 (all times CEST) 14:00: Bronze medal match 20:00: Gold medal match The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. #Hockey #Paris2024 Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: FIH Pro League | Olympic Champions given a scare by South Africa Netherlands seal Olympic Games Paris 2024 qualification! FIH President: “Everything is ready for the hockey stars to shine!” South Africa Battles Hard in Thrilling Paris Olympic Opener Against World Number 1 Netherlands

08 Aug, 2024 Paris, France – Day 13: India men fought back from a goal down to overcome a monumental challenge from Spain, with team captain Harmanpreet Singh scoring twice to help India to their second successive Olympic bronze medal on a scorching afternoon at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. It was a fairytale ending to the playing career of India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who made numerous crucial blocks against the Red Sticks to win an Olympic medal in his final appearance for his country. Sreejesh – a two-time FIH Hockey Stars Goalkeeper of the Year, winning over 330 caps – cut an emotional figure at the end of the contest as players and staff celebrated and honoured a player who represented India with such distinction over an 18-year international career. India’s bronze medal at Tokyo 2020 was their first Olympic podium finish since 1980. However, while their wait for another was far shorter, they certainly did not have it all their own way in a match filled with tension. Following a cagey first quarter, the game burst into life when Spain’s Marc Miralles launched a penalty stroke high into Sreejesh’s goal following a clumsy India tackle in the circle. The Red Sticks almost doubled their advantage when Borja Lacalle rattled the frame of goal before India hit back on the stroke of half time, with Harmanpreet slamming a ferocious penalty corner against the Spanish backboard. Harmanpreet – who also netted in India’s 5-4 bronze medal win over Germany at Tokyo 2020 – put his side ahead three minutes after the break with another wonderful penalty corner drag-flick, this time choosing deception over power to find the bottom left corner. It was Harmanpreet’s tenth goal of the competition, having scored two thirds of India’s fifteen goals here at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Spain rallied hard in the dying stages of the match, putting the Indian goal under intense pressure. However, Sreejesh produced some superb saves to seal a wonderful win for India, bringing the curtain down on his career in glorious style. “I feel great”, said India captain Harmanpreet. “We create history again, back-to-back (bronze medals). It’s a big day for India and a big day for hockey. We were here for gold, but unfortunately, that dream was shattered.” Commenting on the match, Harmanpreet was incredibly proud about how his team performed today. “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. He gave everything to hockey in India, but now it’s his time. He is not going anywhere. He is here (pointing to his heart).” The result means that India men have now won 13 medals in Olympic hockey, with eight golds, one silver and four bronze. For Spain, missing out on the bronze medal is a painful way to end a superb campaign here in Paris. However, having achieved their best Olympic finish since Beijing 2008, they can depart with their heads held high. Further information and statistics about the match can be found here.   The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. Olympic Games Paris 2024 – Hockey 8 August 2024 – Day 13 Men’s medal matches – Thursday 8 August 2024 (all times CEST) Result 14:00: India 2-1 Spain 19:00: Germany v Netherlands   Women’s medal matches – Friday 9 August 2024 (all times CEST) 14:00 – Bronze: Argentina vs Belgium 20:00 – Gold: Netherlands vs China Final Standings Men Gold: Silver: Bronze: India 4: Spain 5: Belgium 6: Australia 7: Great Britain 8: Argentina 9: South Africa 10: Ireland 11: France 12: New Zealand Women Gold: Silver: Bronze: 4: 5: Australia 6: Germany 7: Spain 8: Great Britain 9: USA 10: Japan 11: South Africa 12: France Pool standings overviews Men: click here. Women: click here. Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: Tokyo 2020: Great Britain secure women’s bronze with narrow win over India Olympic Games Paris 2024: Hockey competition squads confirmed Mixed gender on field umpiring for the very first time at an Olympic Games! Brave Effort in Vain: South Africa Falls Short Against Spain in Olympic Clash

07 Aug, 2024 A sensational men’s hockey competition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will reach its climax on Thursday, with four incredible teams fighting it out for the three medals on offer in front of deafening capacity crowds at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. At 14:00 CEST, India and Spain will battle for bronze, with both proud hockey nations determined to end their Olympics on a high after losing their respective semi-final matches. The main event takes place at 19:00, a classic encounter between historic European rivals Germany and the Netherlands, with Die Honamas searching for a fifth Olympic title and the Oranje aiming to land gold for the first time since winning back-to-back titles at Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000. We take a quick look at the two medal matches. India vs Spain – 14:00 CEST While defeat to Germany means that India’s 44-year wait for a ninth Olympic gold medal goes on, they will be determined to finish an otherwise outstanding Olympic competition on a positive note. Despite that heart-breaking result, India’s excellent performances at Paris 2024 ensures they can leave with their heads held high, ideally with bronze medals hanging around their necks. After winning bronze at Tokyo 2020, they have the chance to repeat the trick here at the Yves-du-Manoir stadium. Standing in their way are Spain, a side looking for a first Olympic medal since winning silver at Beijing 2008. While their heavy 4-0 semi-final loss against the Netherlands will have been difficult to take, head coach Max Caldas – who masterminded their sensational quarter-final victory over reigning champions Belgium – will ensure that his team will be ready for the challenge that awaits them. Player perspectives Harmanpreet Singh (IND): “Of course, (all) medals are medals. This is our last chance (of this Olympic Games) and last hope to get a medal. But Spain are good. If they are qualified for the semis, it means they are good, and they beat Belgium. So we are not going to take the match (lightly) and we try to give everything we have and try to get that bronze medal.” Marc Miralles (ESP), speaking before India’s semi-final defeat to Germany: “I don’t know who we’re going to play, but we’re going to do what we always do. We’re going to try to find their weaknesses and try to win the game.” Germany vs Netherlands – 19:00 CEST Germany versus the Netherlands is a fixture with a big history. Their fierce European rivalry has regularly been played out at world level events, with the two meeting in the Olympic gold medal match at London 2012. After thrashing Great Britain 9-2 in the semi-final, the Dutch started that contest as heavy favourites. However, Germany were always going to have their say, with Jan-Philipp Rabante scoring both the goals in 2-0 win as Die Honamas claimed their fourth Olympic gold medal. Following their battling win over India, you certainly would not bet against the current world champions adding a fifth title here at Paris 2024. While European champions the Netherlands suffered a 1-0 loss to Germany in the pool phase, their superb 4-0 thrashing of Spain in the semi-finals ensures that they enter the gold medal match on a high. The Oranje were exceptional against the Spaniards, with team captain Thierry Brinkman scoring one of the best goals of the tournament with a stunning first-time strike into the top corner. With the women also reaching the gold medal match, the dream of a Dutch double at Yves-du-Manoir could become reality, bringing the men’s team’s 24-year wait for Olympic gold to an end. The teams that won gold at Sydney 2000 and Atlanta 1996 both featured current men’s head coach Jeroen Delmee and head coach and Jacques Brinkman, father of Thierry. Player perspectives  Jean-Paul Danneberg (GER): “We know from the past that the Dutch have extremely big problems to score against us. All (the) games were very close in the past. And we know where our qualities are, and our qualities are definitely in defence. The Dutch players need a very good day to score four goals against us. So I think we have a mountain, and they will have big problems to climb us.” Thierry Brinkman (NED): “In this tournament, when you can win a quarter-final against Australia and a semifinal at the Olympics, we know exactly what we’re doing. We have been working for many years with each other now. We know exactly what to do. The final will be a close game for sure. But we know how to finish games.” Medal Matches – Thursday 8 August 2024 (all times CEST) 14:00: Bronze medal match 19:00: Gold medal match The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. #Hockey #Paris2024 Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: Yves-du-Manoir Stadium: A century long legacy of Olympic excellence Hockey at Paris 2024: Men’s Pool B Preview Germany’s Dominant Display Halts South Africa’s Progress Hockey at Paris 2024: Women’s quarter-finals confirmed as pool phase ends

07 Aug, 2024 The Netherlands women proved simply too strong for semi-final opponents Argentina, claiming a 3-0 triumph over their fierce rivals to reach the Olympic final for the sixth successive Games. In front of an enthusiastic sell-out crowd, the reigning Olympic, World, European and FIH Hockey Pro League champions were in irresistible form against Las Leonas, dominating their illustrious opponents with goals from Luna Fokke, Laura Nunnink and Yibbi Jansen. Fokke’s second quarter opener was a goal of outrageous quality, with Dutch defender Renee van Laarhoven picking out her team-mate with an astonishing 60m pass down the right, releasing the young attacker who entered the circle before firing home on her backhand. Fokke turned supplier ahead of half time, splitting open the Argentine defence with a perfectly placed pass onto the stick of Laura Nunnink, who guided the ball between the legs of Leonas shot-stopper Cristina Consento. Competition top scorer Yibbi Jansen putting the result beyond all doubt shortly after half time, rattling home her eighth goal of the tournament with a low drag-flick. The result means that the possibility of the Netherlands winning both hockey gold medals remains very much on, after the men qualified for their final on Tuesday (6 August). For Tokyo 2020 silver medallists Argentina, the result means that they will play for bronze on Friday (9 August). “If you saw me when we scored the goals, I think that kind of describes how I feel”, said Netherlands goalkeeper Anne Veenendaal, who passionately celebrated all three of the goals scored by her team. “I guess that’s all the energy that’s out and I’m just so proud of the team. The two goals (from Fokke and Nunnink) were insane.” On the manner of the victory over Argentina, a team that have often proved a thorn in the side for the Dutch, Veenendaal said: “Yeah, you know, I think we haven’t played that well before now, but we wanted to put that right today. That resulted in three major goals. I’m definitely happy with how we played, I think we scored we could have scored even more.” The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. #Hockey #Paris2024 Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: Tokyo 2020: Great Britain secure women’s bronze with narrow win over India Olympic Games Paris 2024: Hockey competition squads confirmed Mixed gender on field umpiring for the very first time at an Olympic Games! Brave Effort in Vain: South Africa Falls Short Against Spain in Olympic Clash

06 Aug, 2024 Paris, France – Day 11: The men’s hockey gold medal match at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will be an all-European encounter between the Netherlands and Germany, two of the sport’s biggest rivals. The Netherlands men – reached the Olympic gold medal match for the first time in 12 years, overpowering Spain 4-0 in front of another capacity crowd at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. The reigning European champions are hoping to become Olympic champions for the first time since Sydney 2000. In the spine-tingling evening match, reigning world champions Germany overcame India in dramatic style, winning 3-2 to put them on a collision course with the Oranje. Germany have won the men’s Olympic gold medal on four occasions, their last being at London 2012 where they defeated the Dutch in the final. The timings of the semi-finals can be found below, with a complete list of available fixtures and timings available here. Men’s medal matches – Thursday 8 August 2024 (all times CEST) 14:00 – Bronze: India vs Spain 19:00 – Gold: Germany vs Netherlands More information on today’s matches can be found below, with additional details available here. Netherlands 4-0 Spain Goals in each quarter from Jip Janssen, Thierry Brinkman, Thijs van Dam and Duco Telgenkamp thrilled the masses of orange-clad fans at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium, powering the team to a 4-0 victory over Spain. The win keeps alive hopes of a golden Dutch double at Yves-du-Manoir, with the Oranje women set to play their own semi-final match against Argentina on Wednesday (7 August). Whilst the women are reigning Olympic champions, the Netherlands men are searching for their first gold medal in 24 years. The teams that won gold at Sydney 2000 and Atlanta 1996 both featured current men’s head coach Jeroen Delmee and Jacques Brinkman, father of current Netherlands captain Thierry Brinkman. “This is a really special moment for us, but we are not there yet”, said Netherlands goal-scorer Jip Janssen, indicating that his team will not be satisfied with silver. “We want the gold medal, and we’re going to do everything in our power to do so. Whoever we play in the final, it will most definitely be a very tough job. But as I said, we’re going to do everything in our power to achieve it.” While it was a painful defeat, Spain still have a chance to secure a place on the podium in Thursday’s bronze medal game. The match marked a personal milestone for Spain’s Alejandro Alonso, who made his 100th international appearance. Germany 3-2 India  In the spine-tingling evening match, reigning world champions Germany overcame India in dramatic style, winning 3-2 to put them on a collision course with the Oranje. India took a deserved lead through Harmanpreet Singh’s deflected penalty corner, but Germany turned the match on its head with goals from Gonzalo Peillat’s penalty corner and a penalty stroke from Christopher Rühr. India restored parity six minutes into the third quarter through Sukhjeet Singh’s guided penalty corner deflection, but Marco Miltkau netted with six minutes remaining to keep Germany’s hopes of a fifth Olympic gold medal alive and kicking. It was a remarkable contest which, despite the high stakes and intensity, did not see a single disciplinary card awarded to either team. While their 44-year wait for a ninth Olympic gold medal goes on, India have an opportunity to win a second successive Olympic bronze when they face Spain on Thursday. “I feel very proud to have made the final, but we cannot be proud with our performance, to be honest”, said Germany’s Justus Weigand. “It was a fight until the end and we are so happy.” Looking ahead to a classic European encounter with the Netherlands, Weigand said: “Yeah, it’s very classic. I think everybody dreams about this match-up and we are looking forward to the game. Let’s see how it ends.” Further information and statistics on all of today’s matches can be found here.   Notable figures attending the Olympic hockey at Yves-du-Manoir on Day 11 included FIFA President Gianni Infantino as well as Indian billionaire industrialists Sajjan and Parth Jindal. Wednesday 7 August is women’s semi-finals day at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium, with the Netherlands set to meet Argentina at 14:00 CEST before Belgium face China at 19:00. A preview for these matches can be found here. The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. Olympic Games Paris 2024 – Hockey 6 August 2024 – Day 11 Results – Men’s Semi-Finals Netherlands 4-0 Spain Germany 3-2 India Men’s medal matches – Thursday 8 August 2024 (all times CEST) 14:00 – Bronze: India vs Spain 19:00 – Gold: Germany vs Netherlands Final Standings Men Gold: Silver: Bronze: 4: 5: Belgium 6: Australia 7: Great Britain 8: Argentina 9: South Africa 10: Ireland 11: France 12: New Zealand Women Gold: Silver: Bronze: 4: 5: Australia 6: Germany 7: Spain 8: Great Britain 9: USA 10: Japan 11: South Africa 12: France Pool standings overviews Men: click here. Women: click here. . Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: Olympic Games: AfHF AC Letter to South African Teams in Tokyo Japan Hockey ID at Special Olympics World Games 2023: Preview Australia seal Olympic Games Paris 2024 qualification! Indian men, Chinese women seal Olympic Qualification

06 Aug, 2024 The men’s hockey gold medal match at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will be an all-European encounter, with Germany overcoming India in sensational circumstances to set up a clash with fierce rivals the Netherlands on Thursday (8 August). India dominated the first quarter, with the electric skills of Hardik Singh causing no end of problems for the Germany defence. Die Honamas – who are four times Olympic gold medallists – successfully defended four early penalty corners, but eventually the pressure told when Harmanpreet Singh’s drag-flick took a wicked deflection off a German foot to sail into the net. Germany turned the match on its head in the second period, with former Argentina penalty corner ace Gonzalo Peillat having a huge impact. Peillat scored with his very first penalty corner attempt, rattling the India backboard with a low drag-flick. Peillat’s second penalty corner attempt also resulted in a goal, hitting an India foot on the goal-line before Christopher Rühr expertly dispatched the resulting penalty stroke. India, perhaps unfortunate to be trailing at half time, restored parity six minutes into the third quarter with Sukhjeet Singh guided a penalty corner deflection into the net. However, Germany broke India’s hearts when Marco Miltkau touched home with six minutes of the contest remaining, securing a place in their first Olympic final since winning the title against the Netherlands at London 2012. It was a remarkable contest which, despite the high stakes and intensity, did not see a single disciplinary card awarded to either team. “I feel very proud to have made the final, but we cannot be proud with our performance, to be honest”, said Germany’s Justus Weigand. “It was a fight until the end and we are so happy.” Looking ahead to a classic European encounter with the Netherlands, Weigand said: “Yeah, it’s very classic. I think everybody dreams about this match-up and we are looking forward to the game. Let’s see how it ends.” While India’s 44-year wait for a ninth Olympic gold medal goes on, they have an opportunity to win a second successive Olympic bronze when they face Spain on Thursday. The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. #Hockey #Paris2024 Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: World’s first carbon zero hockey turf to be used at Paris 2024 Olympics Unsung Heroes of Olympic Hockey: the Umpires FIH add portrayal guidelines to promote gender equality Great Britain Edges South Africa in Tight Olympic Hockey Battle

06 Aug, 2024 As the hockey action continues at pace in the historic Yves-du-Manoir stadium, which served as the home of the Olympic Games Paris 1924, and hosted the opening ceremony for the Games of the VIII Olympiad, a hundred years ago, we also look back at the century of existence completed by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), which was formed in the very same year of 1924, in Paris! Hockey was formalised with the formation of the “Fédération Internationale de Hockey sur Gazon” on 7 January 1924, in Paris. Frenchman Paul Léautey formed the organisation with initial members from Austria, Belgium, Czechoslovakia, France, Hungary, Spain and Switzerland. By that stage, men’s hockey had already featured in two editions of the Olympic Games – in 1908 and 1920. But, spurred on by its omission from the 1924 Games in Paris, Léautey decided it was imperative that an international governing body be formed. That was the start of the hundred-year journey which has taken hockey to where it is today. Including Paris 2024, hockey has been played at 25 editions of the Olympic Games so far while 16 editions of both the men’s and women’s FIH Hockey World Cup have taken place. Earlier this year, speaking on the day of the FIH’s 100th anniversary, President of the International Olympic Committee Thomas Bach said: “You can look back with so much pride on 100 years of great progress. Starting with only seven member associations, FIH has not stopped growing ever since. Today, your 140 national associations underline in an impressive way that hockey has grown to a truly global sport with worldwide appeal. As you look to this bright future, let me reiterate that FIH, under the great leadership of my friend Tayyab Ikram, can always count on the IOC as a partner by your side to promote our shared Olympic values of peace and solidarity.” To watch the full message from the IOC President, please click here. FIH President Tayyab Ikram added at the time: “We commemorate a century of resilience, progress, and the unyielding spirit of the hockey community. We pay tribute to our athletes, visionary leaders, dedicated volunteers, valued partners, and to all those who have been part of this incredible journey. Our journey, from seven member associations to a sport played in 140 countries, is a testament to the enduring power of hockey. It has been more than just a game; it has been a force for unity, resilience, and positive change marking a century of sporting excellence. I must express my appreciation and admiration for our heroes, our athletes of all times. They have shown great resilience and adaptability by adjusting to changing conditions, environments, equipment, rules, and officiating principles. Their unlimited capacity to perform have elevated the game to higher levels and they serve as role models for all of us.” To watch the full message from the FIH President, please click here. Read the full story on the FIH celebration on 7 January 2024, by clicking here. Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: Zimbabwe’s Golden Girls: The first Olympic Gold Medalists in Women’s Hockey Hockey at Paris 2024: Women’s Pool B Preview South Africa force Argentina all the way in tense Olympic tussle Milestone Match for Chamberlain as South Africa Falls Short Against USA

06 Aug, 2024 Wednesday 7 August is women’s semi-finals day at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium, with the Netherlands taking on great rivals Argentina at 14:00 CEST before Belgium’s Red Panthers face an inspired China at 19:00. With 20,000 fans watching the two matches – 10,000 tickets have been sold for each contest – it is going to be another sensational day of hockey action at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. Netherlands v Argentina – 14:00 CEST After their men’s team successfully negotiated their way to the gold medal game on Tuesday (6 August), the Netherlands women will want to keep alive hopes of a Dutch double here at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Their comfortable 3-1 quarter-final victory over Great Britain was their sixth win on the bounce at Yves-du-Manoir, having scored 22 goals and conceded just six. No nation has ever won both the men’s and the women’s hockey gold medals at the same Olympic Games, so history could be made here in Paris. However, Argentina will do everything in their power to stop the mighty Dutch, and certainly have the quality to do it as they continue their search for a first Olympic title. In addition to on-field excellence, they also have motivation, with many players part of the team beaten by the Netherlands in the gold medal match at Tokyo 2020. With a large contingent of Dutch and Argentinean fans attending, the stadium will be a cauldron of noise, colour and atmosphere. Player perspectives  Renee van Laarhoven (NED): “I think we always have great, amazing games against Argentina. I mean, we know they have loads of passion. They give it their all. We saw it against Germany today, again. We always love to play against them, and I think they love to play against us as well. It’s always a great fight. And, yeah, we can’t wait to keep going.” Agustina Albertarrio (ARG): “(Reaching the semi-finals) is amazing. I love our team. I don’t have the words to explain it, but now we have to rest, and we have to keep fighting, because now we have a really hard game (in the semi-finals).” Belgium v China – 19:00 CEST Having claimed five wins from six matches – their only defeat coming at the hands of the Netherlands – Belgium’s women are already guaranteed their best ever finish at an Olympic Games. A wonderful achievement no doubt, but the Red Panthers have their eyes on the big prize. Outstanding in their 2-0 win over Spain, Belgium are brimming with confidence and will be determined to make the most of what could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reach the Olympic final. Competing in their first Olympic semi-final in 16 years, China’s impressive form in Paris is a testament to how far they have come since Alyson Annan became head coach in 2022. China’s only other Olympic semi-final appearance came at Beijing 2008, where goals from Gao Lihua, Ma Yibo and Zhao Yudiao helped the hosts to a 3-2 victory before taking the silver medal, losing in the final to the Netherlands. However, after defeating Pool B winners Australia in the quarter-finals, China will believe they have nothing to fear in their next two matches, starting with Belgium. Player perspectives  Delphine-Daphne Marien (BEL): “They (China) are really disciplined, they work so hard but we are going to do the same. Playing for the medals, everybody will be even more fired up. For sure we are going to be ready from the first whistle. And then hopefully, hopefully, hopefully we can make to the final.” Ou Ziaxia (CHN): “To reach the Olympic semi-finals is a big pay-off for us, a representation of the hard work that we have put in. They (Australia) were the champion of their pool. I’m very proud of my team-mates and very proud of my coach.” Women’s Semi-Finals – Wednesday 7 August 2024 (all times CEST) 14:00: Netherlands vs Argentina 19:00: Belgium vs China Medal Matches – Friday 9 August 2024 14:00: Bronze medal match 20:00: Gold medal match The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey.  #Hockey #Paris2024 Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: World’s first carbon zero hockey turf to be used at Paris 2024 Olympics Unsung Heroes of Olympic Hockey: the Umpires FIH add portrayal guidelines to promote gender equality Great Britain Edges South Africa in Tight Olympic Hockey Battle

04 Aug, 2024 Paris, France – Day 9: It was an astonishing day of men’s quarter-final action on Sunday (4 August) with India, Spain, the Netherlands and Germany all reaching the Olympic Games Paris 2024 hockey semi-finals at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium.  Ten-player India showed huge determination in a remarkable win against Great Britain before Spain produced a sensational performance to eliminate Belgium, the reigning Olympic champions. The Netherlands battled their way past Australia, while Germany got the better of Argentina. The result completed the line-up for the semi-finals, with Germany set to meet eight times Olympic gold medallists India and the Netherlands facing Spain in the final four on Tuesday 6 August. The timings of the semi-finals can be found below, with a complete list of available fixtures and timings available here. Men’s Semi-finals – Tuesday 6 August 2024 (all times CEST) 14:00   Netherlands vs Spain 19:00   Germany vs India More information on today’s matches can be found below, with additional details available here. India 1-1 Great Britain (4-2 after shoot-out)  India men reached the Olympic semi-finals against all odds, defeating Great Britain in a shoot-out despite being a player down for almost three quarters of the match after Amit Rohidas was shown a red card. Remarkably, India took a shock lead five minutes later through a Harmanpreet Singh penalty corner before Great Britain’s Lee Morton tied the scores ahead of half time. India produced a remarkable defensive display for the remainder of the contest, forcing a shoot-out in which they triumphed thanks to goalkeeping heroics from PR Sreejesh, who is set to retire after Paris 2024. “It was so amazing”, said experienced midfielder and former India captain Manpreet Singh, who won Olympic bronze with the team at Tokyo 2020. “I expected that (it would be difficult) when we lost one guy, but we still defended very well. So I give thanks to our entire team, because they gave their best today.” Belgium 2-3 Spain In the second quarter-final, Spain produced a masterclass in game management to end Belgium’s hopes of winning a second successive Olympic gold medal. The Red Sticks emerged 3-2 winners against the Tokyo 2020 champions to reach their first Olympic semi-final since Beijing 2008, where a team containing generational talents such as Pol Amat, Santi Freixa and Edi Tubau went on to become silver medallists. “I’m so happy right now”, said Marc Miralles, who contributed to the scoreline alongside Jose Basterra and Marc Reyne, after the match. “I’m really proud of how we played the whole game. We moved the ball really well, we communicated really well. We defended so good all the time.” Netherlands 2-0 Australia The Netherlands became the third men’s team to reach the semi-finals, defeating Australia 2-0 to exact revenge on the side that defeated them at the same stage of the tournament at Tokyo 2020. It was another fiercely contested match at Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, with the large contingent of Dutch fans getting the win that they so desperately wanted thanks to goals from Duco Telgenkamp and Thijs van Dam. Telgenkamp’s superb penalty corner deflection came five minutes into the second half, with Van Dam scoring a stunning solo goal to effectively kill off the Kookaburras – who rallied hard in the latter stages – with eight minutes remaining. “I feel amazing”, said Netherlands goal-scorer Telgenkamp after the match. “It was just a fighting game. We fought until the end to get a good result. it was just a fantastic performance from the team.” Germany 3-2 Argentina Germany kept alive their quest for the fifth Olympic gold medal with a hard-fought win against Argentina, who twice fought back before Germany’s Justus Weigand scored a late winner to break the hearts of Los Leones at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Die Honamas twice lead through Teo Hinrichs and Gonzalo Peillat, only for Maico Casella and Agustin Mazzilli to peg back Germany on each occasion. However, it was to be Germany’s day, with Weigand tapping into an unguarded net after a surging run and pass from Niklas Wellen. Looking ahead to Germany’s semi-final against India on Tuesday, Rühr said: “India is going to be hell of a game. I mean, they got the red card and worked their way through to the shoot-out, which is extraordinary. And yeah, we’ve got to be there. And if we were there, we’re going to win, but we’ve got to show up.” Further information and statistics on all of today’s matches can be found by clicking here. Notable figures attending the Olympic hockey at Yves-du-Manoir on Day 9 included the Duchess of Edinburgh of the British royal family, legendary football coach Louis van Gaal, Bollywood star Taapsee Pannu, Danish badminton player Matias Boe and Pawan Munjal, the CEO of Hero MotoCorp. The knock-out phase of the Paris 2024 Olympic hockey competition continues on Monday 5 August with four fantastic women’s quarter-finals at Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. At 10:00 CEST, Pool B winners Australia face Pool A’s fourth placed team China as former Hockeyroos team-mates Katrina Powell and Alyson Annan, the respective coaches of Australia and China, go head-to-head. At 12:30, Pool B runners up Argentina face Pool A’s third placed team Germany before Pool A winners the Netherlands take on Great Britain, who finished fourth in Pool B, at 17:30.  The women’s quarter-finals are concluded at 20:00 with a meeting between Pool A runners up Belgium and Spain, who finished fourth in Pool B. A preview of these matches can be found by clicking here. The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. Olympic Games Paris 2024 – Hockey 4 August 2024 – Day 9 Results – Men’s Quarter-Finals India 1-1 Great Britain (4-2 after shoot-out) Belgium 2-3 Spain Netherlands 2-0 Australia Germany 3-2 Argentina Fixtures – Men’s Semi Finals (All time CEST) 14:00: Netherlands v Spain 19:00: Germany v India

Continue Reading →

04 Aug, 2024 On Monday 5 August, the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium provides the stage for the women’s quarter-finals, where eight teams will fight it out for the four available semi-finals spots here at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Ahead of the big day, we take a quick look at four matches that will take place. Australia v China – 10:00 CEST Pool B winners Australia will start their match against China, the fourth ranked team in Pool A, as strong favourites. Having claimed four wins and a draw from their pool campaign, the Hockeyroos are clearly in confident mood. However, China come into this contest on the back of a 7-1 thrashing of hosts France, a high-quality performance that showed how dangerous they can be on their day. With former Aussie team-mates (and double Olympic gold medalists) in charge of the two teams – Katrina Powell for the Hockeyroos, Alyson Annan for China – it will be fascinating to see how this contest plays out. Argentina v Germany – 12:30 CEST Meeting in the quarter-finals for the second Olympics in succession, Argentina recorded a 3-0 victory over Die Danas at Tokyo 2020 with goals coming from Agustina Albertarrio, Victoria Granatto and Valentina Raposo. It’s anybody’s guess whether history will repeat itself in Paris, but Argentina have looked very good so far in this competition. They were unbeaten in Pool B, claiming four wins and a draw to finish second behind Australia on goal difference. Germany have enjoyed some brilliant moments here, claiming three wins to finish third in Pool A. They also have two players currently in the race for tournament top scorer, with Nike Lorenz having netted six times and Charlotte Stapenhorst five. Netherlands v Great Britain – 17:30 CEST Having won all five of their Pool A matches and scored an astonishing 19 goals, the Netherlands are hot favourites to retain their Olympic gold medal. Tournament top scorer Yibbi Jansen is in imperious form, having already scored seven goals for her country here in Paris. However, Great Britain – who finished fourth in Pool B – should certainly not be underestimated. The team has medaled at the last three Olympic Games, famously defeating the Netherlands to win gold at Rio 2016 as well as claiming bronze at both London 2012 and Tokyo 2020. Belgium v Spain – 20:00 CEST Belgium’s strong showing in Pool A, winning four out of five matches, suggests that they are the team to beat in this particular clash. However, the same was said ahead of Sunday’s quarter-final meeting between the two nations’ men’s teams before Spain tore up the script, knocking defending champions Belgium out of the competition. While Pool B’s third placed team Spain will believe lightning can strike twice at Yves-du-Manoir, they know they face a Red Panthers side bang in form. Striker Ambre Ballenghien has six goals to her name at Paris 2024 and is clearly a huge attacking threat for Belgium. If Spain can keep her quiet, anything can happen. Women’s Quarter-Finals – Monday 5 August 2024 (all times CEST) 10:00: Australia v China – Match 4 12:30: Argentina v Germany – Match 2 17:30: Netherlands v Great Britain – Match 1 20:00: Belgium v Spain – Match 3 Semi-finals – Wednesday 7 August 2024 (times TBC) Winner Match 1 v Winner Match 2 Winner Match 3 v Winner Match 4 The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. #Hockey #Paris2024 Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: Hockey @Paris2024: 1 year to go! Paris 2024: Oman to host FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifier Women’s Hockey at the Olympic Games: A statistical rewind Hockey at Paris 2024: Men’s Pool A Preview

03 Aug, 2024 Paris, France – Day 8: The final six matches of the women’s hockey competition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 took place in Saturday (3 August), with the results finalising the line-up for the quarter-finals. The women’s knock-out matches begin on Monday 5 August, a day that will see eight teams reduced to the four semi-finalists. At 10:00 CEST, Pool B winners Australia face Pool A’s fourth placed team China as former Hockeyroos team-mates Katrina Powell and Alyson Annan, the respective coaches of Australia and China, go head-to-head. At 12:30, Pool B runners up Argentina face Pool A’s third placed team Germany before Pool A winners the Netherlands take on Great Britain, who finished fourth in Pool B, at 17:30. The women’s quarter-finals are concluded at 20:00 with a meeting between Pool A runners up Belgium and Spain, who finished fourth in Pool B. The timings for these matches can be found below or by clicking here.    More information on today’s matches can be found below. For additional information about the Pool Rankings and the various splitters and the progression of the competition, please click here (Appendix 2, art. 2.2). Women’s Pool A The Netherlands maintained their 100 percent win record thanks to a comfortable 5-1 victory against Japan, with goals coming from Yibbi Jansen, Frederique Matla (2), Joosje Burg and Marijn Veen. Looking ahead to her team’s quarter-final against Rio 2016 gold medallists Great Britain, Burg said: “They’re tough opponents. They play quite physically. You have to play well technically against them. So it will be a tough match but I’m really excited to play against them.” With Japan’s loss against the Netherlands officially confirming their China’s place in the quarter-finals, the champions of Asia produced a wonderful display of attacking hockey in an impressive 7-1 win against hosts France. Li Hong and Chen Yang both scored doubles as China celebrated their safe progression to the quarter-finals in style. On China finishing in the top four of its group for the first time since London 2012, China head coach Alyson Annan said: “We knew it would be difficult, but, you know, we thought that we were capable of making the quarter-finals. Once you’re in there, anything can happen.” The most significant Pool A match came at the end of the day, with Belgium emerging 2-0 winners against Germany to secure a second place for the Red Panthers. Michelle Struijk and Ambre Ballenghien scored either side of the first quarter break Women’s Pool B  Goals from Valentina Raposo, Agustina Albertarrio and Zoe Diaz de Armas gave Tokyo 2020 silver medallists Argentina a resounding 3-0 victory over Great Britain, who won bronze three years ago in Tokyo. Commenting on the win the day after her 36th birthday, Argentina’s Rocio Sanchez said: “It was a really nice, happy birthday yesterday, and this was a great birthday result. It was like my gift for the team (and) for me.” Argentina’s result against Great Britain left Australia needing to defeat Spain by two clear goals to overturn the goal-difference deficit and leapfrog Las Leonas into first place in Pool B. They achieved their aim in the very last minute, with Mariah Williams netting to give the Hockeyroos a 3-1 win. When asked about the importance of remaining unbeaten, Williams said: “It’s really important. We really focus on just the game ahead, and we don’t go any further than that. It really worked for us. We tried to put all our efforts into making sure we nailed that game.” The USA and South Africa, both already eliminated, were also in action on Saturday, with USA taking a 1-0 victory to secure fifth place in the Pool B standings. Meredith Sholder scored the only goal of the game, netting a penalty corner in the 43rd minute. Further information and statistics on all of today’s matches can be found by clicking here. Notable figures attending the Olympic hockey at Yves-du-Manoir on Day 8 included British tennis legend and double Olympic gold medallist Sir Andy Murray – who presented Great Britain’s Sarah Robertson with a bouquet of flowers to mark her 100 GB cap – as well as Argentine duo Santiago Lange and Paula Pareto, Olympic gold medallists in sailing and judo respectively. The Paris 2024 Olympic hockey competition enters the knock-out phase on Sunday 4 August, with the men’s quarter-finals all taking place on Pitch 1 at the fabulous Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. At 10:00 CEST, Pool B runners up India taking on Great Britain, the third placed team in Pool A, with Pool B table-toppers and reigning Olympic champions Belgium meeting Pool A’s fourth placed team Spain at 12:30. At 17:30, the Pool A’s second placed team Netherlands face a mouthwatering last eight clash against Australia, the team that finished third in Pool B. The final match of the day will see Pool A winners Germany take on Rio 2016 gold medallists Argentina, who finished fourth in Pool B. The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. Olympic Games Paris 2024 – Hockey 3 August 2024 – Day 8 Results Women’s Pool A Netherlands 5-1 Japan China 7-1 France Germany 0-2 Belgium Women’s Pool B  Great Britain 0-3 Argentina Australia 3-1 Spain USA 1-0 South Africa Pool standings overviews Men: click here. Women: click here. Women’s Quarter-Finals – Monday 5 August 2024 (all times CEST) 10:00: Australia v China – Match 4 12:30: Argentina v Germany – Match 2 17:30: Netherlands v Great Britain – Match 1 20:00: Belgium v Spain – Match 3 Semi-finals – Wednesday 7 August 2024 (times TBC) Winner Match 1 v Winner Match 2 Winner Match 3 v Winner Match 4 Source: FIH.hockey | August 3, 2024 Related posts: Yves-du-Manoir Stadium: A century long legacy of Olympic excellence World’s first carbon zero hockey turf to be used at Paris 2024 Olympics Hockey at Paris 2024: Men’s Pool B Preview Germany’s Dominant Display Halts South

Continue Reading →

Before play got underway in Paris between South Africa and the USA, South Africa acknowledged Dirkie Chamberlain’s milestone 250th test cap. Chamberlain, who also represented South Africa at the 2012 Olympics, becomes the sixth South African woman to reach this milestone. Both the USA and South Africa aimed to finish their tournament on a high note, having missed out on the quarter-finals. The USA, ranked five spots ahead of South Africa, were the favorites. The USA was awarded two contentious penalty corners in the opening 10 minutes, but both attempts were thwarted by South Africa’s solid defense. South Africa’s best chance of the opening quarter fell to Taheera Augousti, but her shot was off target. In the second quarter, South Africa looked to create more opportunities but struggled to find results in the attacking third. Anelle Lloyd cut out a dangerous cross from the Americans, with both teams effectively canceling each other out, leading to a lack of goalmouth action. Taheera Augousti, looking the most likely to score for South Africa, drove in and fired a shot straight at the keeper, leaving the score goalless at the halftime break. South Africa had a great chance in the second half when Onge Mali broke free down the side, but her double shot was saved. Meredith Sholder then opened the scoring for the USA from a penalty corner, diving in to deflect the ball past Anelle Lloyd. This pivotal moment took the score to 1-0 by the end of the third quarter. Both teams received green cards early in the final quarter as the clock continued to tick. South Africa created good connections and were eventually rewarded with a penalty corner, thanks to Celia Seerane’s efforts. However, this attempt was saved, and a subsequent penalty corner a minute later saw the South Africans overcomplicate the play, failing to get a shot off. In a last-ditch effort, South Africa pulled Anelle Lloyd off for the final three minutes to gain an extra outfield player. Despite their tremendous efforts, the South Africans were unable to capitalize, resulting in a narrow defeat. Source: sahockey.co.za | August 3, 2024 Related posts: Yves-du-Manoir Stadium: A century long legacy of Olympic excellence World’s first carbon zero hockey turf to be used at Paris 2024 Olympics Hockey at Paris 2024: Men’s Pool B Preview Germany’s Dominant Display Halts South Africa’s Progress

03 Aug, 2024 The race for the men’s hockey gold medal intensifies on Sunday 4 August as the magnificent Yves-du-Manoir Stadium hosts the Paris 2024 Olympic quarter-finals. Fascinatingly, the men’s quarter-final line up is identical to that seen three years ago at Tokyo 2020, with India playing Great Britain, Belgium meeting Spain, the Netherlands taking on Australia and Germany doing battle with Argentina. We look ahead to a potentially thrilling day of knock-out action in Paris. India v Great Britain – 10:00 CEST Lead by inspirational captain Harmanpreet Singh, eight times Olympic champions India have been outstanding at Paris 2024. Wins against New Zealand, Ireland and Australia – their first Olympic win against the Kookaburras since Munich 1972 – earned them a second-place finish in Pool B. India’s only defeat came at the hands of reigning Olympic champions and pool winners Belgium, a match in which they could easily have come away with a share of the spoils. While India have been exceptional, Great Britain’s form has been equally eye-catching. After thrashing Spain 4-0 in their opening Pool A match, GB fought back from losing positions against South Africa, the Netherlands and France to seal qualification before pool winners Germany edged them in their final match. The quarter-final between the two sides at Tokyo 2020 was won by India, who took a 3-1 victory before going on to take the bronze medal. Belgium v Spain – 12:30 CEST After dominating Pool B, reigning Olympic champions Belgium have been marked as the team to beat here in Paris. Following narrow wins against Ireland and New Zealand, the team hit devastating form with a 6-2 win over Australia before beating India to effectively top the standings, a position confirmed by a 3-3 draw with Argentina. While Belgium will take some stopping, Spain have also shown in Paris that they are capable of mixing it with the very best. A fourth place finish in Pool A does not do justice to their performances, the highlight being a 2-0 triumph over world champions Germany. At Tokyo 2020, Alexander Hendrickx (2) and Tom Boon helped Belgium’s Red Lions to a 3-1 quarter-final win over the Red Sticks on their way to winning their first ever Olympic gold medal in hockey. Netherlands v Australia – 17:30 CEST After convincing Pool A wins against South Africa and France, two-time Olympic champions the Netherlands dropped five points from their next six by drawing with Great Britain before falling to defeat against Germany. However, the European champions ended the pool phase in thrilling fashion, fighting back from 2-0 down to secure a 5-3 victory against Spain, confirming a second-place finish in the Pool B standings. Despite finishing third in Pool A, the Kookaburras are always a dangerous animal in knock-out hockey. While much of the focus has been on their defeats against Belgium and India, it is worth remembering that the Tokyo 2020 silver medallists actually won three of their five pool matches, defeating Argentina, Ireland and Oceania rivals New Zealand. They also have the tournament top scorer amongst their ranks, with Blake Govers having netted seven times in five matches. Australia emerged as winners of the Tokyo 2020 quarter-final, beating the Netherlands in a shoot-out 3-0 after the regular time finished with the scores locked at 2-2. Germany v Argentina – 20:00 CEST As reigning world champions, Germany were always going to be seen as genuine medal contenders here in Paris, a fact proven by finishing top of Pool A. Die Honamas recorded wins over France, South Africa, the Netherlands and Great Britain to top the standings, with a 2-0 defeat against inspired Spain in their second match being their only blip. They are the joint highest scorers with 16 goals (tied with the Netherlands) and have the joint best defensive record, having conceded just six. Interestingly, the team that Germany share their defensive record is Argentina, who will no doubt prove stubborn opponents in this quarter-final clash. Despite finishing fourth in Pool B, Los Leones have lost just once here in Paris, going down to Australia in the opening match but defeating New Zealand and Ireland while claiming superb draws against India and Belgium. The presence of Gonzalo Peillat – who fired Argentina to Olympic glory at Rio 2016 – in the Germany line-up certainly adds extra spice to the occasion. The Tokyo 2020 quarter-final meeting between Germany and Argentina ended with a 3-1 victory for the Europeans. It will be fascinating to see how this and all of the quarter-final matches play out here at Paris 2024. The hockey competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place from Saturday 27 July to Friday 9 August. Both the men’s and women’s competitions feature 12 teams, split into two pools of six ahead of quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches. For more information about the hockey competitions at Paris 2024, visit Olympics.Hockey. Men’s Quarter-Finals – Sunday 4 August 2024 (all times CEST) 10:00: India v Great Britain – Match 2 12:30: Belgium v Spain – Match 4 17:30: Netherlands v Australia – Match 3 20:00: Germany v Argentina – Match 1 Semi-finals – Tuesday 6 August 2024 (times TBC) Winner Match 1 v Winner Match 2 Winner Match 3 v Winner Match 4 #Hockey #Paris2024 Source: FIH.hockey Related posts: World’s first carbon zero hockey turf to be used at Paris 2024 Olympics Unsung Heroes of Olympic Hockey: the Umpires FIH add portrayal guidelines to promote gender equality Great Britain Edges South Africa in Tight Olympic Hockey Battle

Despite both teams being eliminated from the Paris Olympics ahead of their meeting, there was no shortage of noise and excitement in the build-up as South Africa and France locked horns at Stade Yves-du-Manoir on Friday evening. South Africa settled first and were rewarded with an early penalty corner. Matt Guise-Brown finished it superbly into the bottom left corner and the South Africans led 1-0. South Africa produced again before long but Tevin Kok’s leading run and deflection was wide. The French crowd were doing everything they could to impact the game, cheering on every half-chance massively. The South Africans were dialed in well in the opening quarter though and created a brilliant opening just before the hooter, but the shot was over the top of the goal and it was 1-0 at the break. The French leveled with a goal out of almost nothing. An overhead was lifted into the circle, the ball across lacked venom, but Timothee Clement did brilliantly to divert it past Gowan Jones. France was starting to show poor discipline and were collecting a couple of cards as a result. South Africa re-established the lead with a brilliant finish from Keenan Horne after great work by Bili Ntuli on the baseline to fire in the cross. But the lead didn’t last long. France was gifted a penalty corner and Victor Charlet made no mistake to restore parity. France took advantage of an error in the South African defense to create a shot at goal but Gowan Jones was able to keep it out. And despite the rising tension in Paris, the score remained deadlocked at 2-2 at the half-time break. The second half started with the same tension the first had finished with, further cementing the desires of both teams to get the win. Jacque van Tonder was given a yellow card as South Africa would need to play out five minutes with a player short. They did that without any problem, returned to a full complement, and immediately were awarded a penalty corner that was very close to being a penalty stroke. The injection wasn’t quite right and South Africa lost their referral in the resultant shot. Three-quarters complete, the scoreline remained 2-2. South Africa had a surprise lead early in the final quarter when Dayaan Cassiem crossed the ball into the circle and it was deflected home by the defender. The goal was disallowed though, as on referral it was ruled to have not gone five meters before entering the circle. South Africa countered again but couldn’t find the telling touch to get it in. Seven minutes remained. South Africa won a penalty corner and the quick-thinking Mustapha Cassiem threw in a variation with a slap finish that caught a deflection and went in. France pulled their keeper to try and go for the result, but the South Africans punished them when Dayaan Cassiem pulled into the circle and fired home to make it 4-2. It probably should have been five, but Ntuli fired wide. And it was five shortly afterward as Dayaan Cassiem punished in the way he knows how. A massive victory for the South African men against the French in front of a packed home crowd will live long in the memory, serving as a further reminder of the quality this team possesses. Source: sahockey.co.za | August 2, 2024 Related posts: Olympic Games: AfHF AC Letter to South African Teams in Tokyo Japan Hockey ID at Special Olympics World Games 2023: Preview Australia seal Olympic Games Paris 2024 qualification! Indian men, Chinese women seal Olympic Qualification

South Africa faced the daunting task of taking on FIH Nations Cup champions Spain, hoping to keep their Quarter Final dream alive. With Antonet Louw ruled out, it was Kayla Swarts’ second Olympic game, closely watched by her brother, Wayde van Niekerk. In the second minute, South Africa launched a superb counter-attack and, after a referral, were awarded a penalty corner. However, they couldn’t capitalize on the chance, keeping the scoreline blank. Spain then enjoyed a period of possession, but South Africa struck again on the counter. Celia Seerane’s shot earned another penalty corner, yet again, South Africa failed to convert the opportunity. Despite promising attacks, the game awaited its first goal. Spain broke the deadlock with their first penalty corner, executed perfectly for Belen Iglesias to tap home, ending the first quarter 1-0 in favor of Spain. The second quarter began with both sides failing to create significant chances until an unforced error invited Spain to attack. Laura Barrios fired wide, letting South Africa off the hook. Although South Africa saw more of the ball, they struggled to create scoring opportunities. The first half ended with Spain leading 1-0 under the brutal sun. Early in the second half, Spain earned their second penalty corner but were thwarted by South Africa’s defense. A successful referral overturned another penalty corner for Spain, maintaining the 1-0 scoreline. Kayla de Waal’s snapshot from the top of the circle was saved by Clara Perez. The game entered the final quarter with South Africa still trailing. Kristen Paton won a penalty corner for South Africa at the start of the final quarter, but the variation failed to hit the target. Erin Christie’s solid defense stopped a cross, but Spain earned a penalty corner from a deflection. Anelle Lloyd made a crucial save, keeping it 1-0. South Africa continued to press for an equalizer, putting immense pressure on the Spanish defense but failing to find the telling connection. Thati Zulu’s penalty corner led to calls for a stroke from the crowd, but the shot was saved amidst a goalmouth scramble. With five minutes remaining, South Africa’s chances dwindled further after Thati Zulu received a yellow card. Spain won another penalty corner, but South Africa’s defense stood firm. Another corner followed, but this time, the defense was beaten along with the goal. Despite a valiant effort, South Africa could not find the equalizer, falling short in a hard-fought match against Spain. Source: sahockey.co.za | August 1, 2024 Related posts: World’s first carbon zero hockey turf to be used at Paris 2024 Olympics Unsung Heroes of Olympic Hockey: the Umpires FIH add portrayal guidelines to promote gender equality Great Britain Edges South Africa in Tight Olympic Hockey Battle

02 Aug, 2024 Paris, France – Day 7: Following the completion of men’s pool phase, the line up for the men’s quarter-finals at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 is now known. On Sunday 4 August, Pool A winners Germany face a quarter-final meeting with Rio 2016 gold medallists Argentina, who finished fourth in Pool B, with Pool B table-toppers and reigning Olympic champions Belgium meeting Pool A’s fourth placed team Spain. The Netherlands finished second in Pool A and will now face a mouthwatering last eight clash with Pool B’s third placed team Australia, with Pool B runners up India taking on Great Britain, the third placed team in Pool A. The timings for these matches can be found below or by clicking here.   There were also two significant matches in women’s Pool A, with the Netherlands and Germany both snatching wins ahead of the final day of pool action on Saturday (3 August). More information on today’s matches can be found below. For additional information about the Pool Rankings and the various splitters and the progression of the competition, please click here (Appendix 2, art. 2.2).   Men’s Pool A Christopher Rühr scored twice as Germany secured their place at the top of pool A with a 2-1 win against Great Britain, who finished third in the pool. Rühr netted a backhand rocket and a penalty stroke to send Die Honamas into a quarter-final against Argentina on Monday. Reflecting on the result, Germany’s Martin Zwicker said: “It was a really tough game but we are glad to have the three points to finish top of the board.” The Netherlands recovered from two goals down to claim a remarkable 5-3 victory over Spain, with Jip Janssen and Tjep Hoedemakers both netting doubles. The result put the Netherlands temporarily at the top of the pool ahead of the evening match between Germany and Great Britain, with Spain finishing in fourth. Netherlands ace Seve van Ass said: “They did really well in the first quarter. From then you can make it or break it as a squad, and it helps if you have some experience, if you know what to do, if you know how to step it up. And we really took up the challenge.” South Africa completed their Olympic competition with a 5-2 win over hosts France in front of a raucous, partisan crowd at Yves-du-Manoir. The Cassiem brothers contributed three goals to South Africa’s cause, with Mustaphaa firing home before Dayaan added a late brace after France had replaced their goalkeeper with an outfield player in a bid to salvage something from the contest. Men’s Pool B A last-gasp equaliser from Thibeau Stockbroekx earned Belgium a point in their final pool match, tying 3-3 with Argentina. The goal ensured that the Red Lions completed the pool phase unbeaten, with four wins and a draw from five matches to finish top of the standings. A point was not enough for Argentina to climb up the table, remaining in fourth position. It was a special day for Belgium’s Florent van Aubel, who made his 300thappearance for his country. India men claimed their first Olympic hockey victory over Australia since Munich 1972, some 52 years ago, as team captain Harmanpreet Singh scored twice in a 3-2 victory against the Kookaburras to ensure a second place Pool finish. “We started (the tournament by) winning, and we decided we were going to finish with a winning match” said Harmanpreet, who hopes to guide India to their first gold medal since Moscow 1980. “We put them under pressure and the pressure was so good from the frontline.” India’s Shamsher Singh achieved a personal milestone against Australia, playing his 100th international match. As South Africa did in Pool A, Ireland ended their Paris 2024 campaign on a high note with a hard-fought victory over bottom of the table New Zealand, as goals from Benjamin Walker and Jeremy Duncan sealed 2-1 win to finish fifth in Pool B. Women’s Pool A There were two significant matches in women’s Pool A, with the Netherlands taking control of the group with a 3-1 win over the previously unbeaten Belgium while Germany defeated China 2-0. Pien Sanders, Yibbi Jansen and Maria Verschoor scored the goals to give the Oranje victory over the Red Panthers, putting them three points clear at the top of the table. “I feel quite good, it was a good game”, said Netherlands scorer Verschoor. “I think we were playing very solid. We weren’t in any kind of danger. I’m just really happy with the win.” The contest brought up a milestone for umpire Hannah Harrison (GBR), who took charge of the 100th international match. Charlotte Stapenhorst and Nike Lorenz both scored twice for Die Danas in their victory over China, a win that left them second in the table at the end of the day’s play. “It was a tough game”, said Germany’s Amelie Wortmann. “China is always a strong opponent, so we wanted to defend well, and then it’s good for us. We made an early goal.” Despite the defeat, it was a milestone moment for China’s Dan Wen, who played her 100th international match. Further information and statistics on all of today’s matches can be found by clicking here. Notable figures attending the Olympic hockey at Yves-du-Manoir on Day 7 included Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Greg Barclay, Chairman of the International Cricket Council. The Paris 2024 Olympic hockey competition continues on Saturday 3 August with the completion of the women’s pool phase, which will finalise the fixtures for the quarter-finals. In Pool A, Netherlands (1st – 12 pts) meet Japan (5th – 1pt) on Pitch 2 at 10:30 CEST, with China (4th – 3pts) and France (6th – 0pts) going head-to-head on Pitch 1 at 17:00. The final match of the pool phase also takes place on Pitch 1, with Germany (2nd – 9pts) playing Belgium (3rd – 9pts). In Pool B, Great Britain (4th – 6pts) and Argentina (2nd – 10pts) feature in the 10:00 match on Pitch 1, with Australia (1st – 10pts) facing Spain (3rd – 7pts) at

Continue Reading →