Harmanpreet urges India to cut errors despite win over Pakistan

AMSTELVEEN: India captain Harmanpreet Singh said his side must tighten up defensively after beating Pakistan 5-3 in a high-intensity FIH Men’s World Cup clash on Wednesday, extending their decade-long unbeaten run against their arch-rivals.

Harmanpreet scored twice from penalty corners as India secured victory, but the captain said defensive errors could prove costly when the tournament reaches the knockout stages.

“Missing a few chances upfront is okay but we cannot afford any mistake at the back,” Harmanpreet said after the match.

He was particularly concerned by India’s failure to retain possession after winning the ball in the attacking half and another slow start to the third quarter.

“If you are winning the ball in the 25-metre area, we must keep the possession. We are making some silly mistakes which can be avoided,” he said. “It is a good learning for us for the next match.”

Despite those concerns, Harmanpreet was pleased with India’s attacking display, highlighting their circle entries, passing and ball possession.

Head coach Craig Fulton also praised the team’s ability to remain focused during a match played under intense pressure.

“It was a big game on a big occasion and everyone is trying their best. I am glad that we stuck to our plan,” Fulton said.

Abhishek was also on target twice and said India remained calm despite Pakistan’s fightback.

“There was no nervousness. We played as per our plan and succeeded,” he said.

Pakistan’s Sufiyan Khan acknowledged that his side’s mistakes had contributed to the defeat.

“We made many mistakes and we have to work hard. India is a very good team,” he said, adding that Pakistan hoped to learn from the match before the Asian Games next month.