Continuing with their dismal performance in the FIH Pro League, the Indian women’s hockey team succumbed to a 1-5 defeat against Belgium on Saturday. This was the team’s fifth defeat on the trot in the European leg of the tournament.

India lost the match despite taking a lead in the sixth minute of the match. Belgium turned things around after half time by scoring five goals.

India’s strategy to defend after taking an early lead clearly backfired. The Indian defence was clueless in the last two quarters against Belgium’s onslaught, conceding several penalty corners.

The Indian women will again take on Belgium in return leg match on Sunday.