Belgium Stay Unbeaten as England Keep Title Hopes Alive in FIH Pro League
Report: Imran Sohail
Belgium’s men extended their unbeaten run in the FIH Pro League after fighting back to earn a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands before securing the bonus point in a shootout.
In London, England’s men maintained their slim chances of challenging for the top spot with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Pakistan. Meanwhile, England’s women suffered a setback in their battle to avoid relegation, losing 1-0 to Spain.
Elsewhere, the Netherlands women celebrated their sixth Pro League title and Olympic qualification in style with a convincing 6-0 win over Australia. Germany edged Argentina 2-1 in Berlin, while China claimed a late 2-1 victory against Ireland.
Spain Women Defeat England to Boost Momentum
Spain secured a narrow 1-0 win over England in a closely contested women’s match.
England started brightly and created early opportunities, but Spain gradually gained control and began threatening in attack. The breakthrough came shortly before half-time when Flor Amundson finished a well-worked move to give Spain the lead.
England pushed hard for an equaliser in the second half and even removed their goalkeeper in the closing stages to increase attacking pressure. Despite earning several late penalty corners, the hosts were unable to find a way past Spain’s organised defence.
The result marked Spain’s second consecutive victory and strengthened their positive run of form.
England Men Come From Behind to Beat Pakistan
England recovered from a first-half deficit to secure a 2-1 victory over Pakistan in the men’s competition.
Both teams created chances during an evenly matched opening period. Pakistan broke the deadlock four minutes before half-time when Waheed Ashraf Rana finished a fast counterattack to put the visitors ahead.
England increased the pressure after the break and found an equaliser through Phil Roper in the third quarter. The hosts continued to attack and eventually took the lead early in the final quarter when Sam Hooper converted a penalty corner.
Pakistan defended strongly throughout the match, limiting England despite facing numerous penalty corners. However, England held on to claim an important win and remain in contention near the top of the standings.
Phil Roper was named Player of the Match following his influential performance in England’s comeback victory.
