The Indian men's hockey team's struggles in the FIH Pro League continued on Saturday, June 21, 2025, as they suffered a 3-6 defeat against Belgium, marking their seventh consecutive loss in the tournament. The match, held in Antwerp, saw the world number three, Belgium, dominate proceedings, further denting India's hopes of securing a direct qualification for the next World Cup.

Belgium initiated the attack from the start, securing two penalty corners within the first 20 seconds of the match. Although Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera managed to block Alexander Hendrickx's initial drag-flick, Arthur Van Doren swiftly capitalized on the rebound, putting Belgium ahead in the first minute. The early goal put India on the defensive, as they struggled to gain possession and establish momentum throughout the first quarter.

In the second quarter, India showed some signs of resurgence, earning two quick penalty corners. However, they failed to convert these opportunities. Against the run of play, Hendrickx extended Belgium's lead with a precise drag-flick just before halftime, leaving India trailing 0-2.

India displayed renewed vigor after the restart, with Dilpreet Singh reducing the deficit in the 36th minute, converting a penalty corner. Two minutes later, Mandeep Singh deflected Vivek Sagar Prasad's pass into the goal, leveling the score at 2-2. India continued to press, with Sanjay narrowly missing a penalty corner attempt.

However, Belgium regained control in the final quarter. Roman Duvekot scored from close range after a skillful run by Tom Boon, and Thibeau Stockbroekx added a fourth goal following Victor Foubert's play, pushing Belgium to a 4-2 lead. Van Doren further compounded India's woes with another goal, increasing the lead to 5-2. Despite Amit Rohidas converting a penalty corner in the 56th minute to narrow the margin, Tom Boon sealed the victory for Belgium with a sixth goal in the 59th minute. The match concluded with a 6-3 scoreline in favor of the home side.

This defeat signifies the seventh consecutive loss for India in the European leg of the FIH Pro League. Prior to this match, India had suffered defeats against the Netherlands (1-2 and 2-3), Argentina (2-3 and 1-2), and Australia (2-3 and 2-3). With 15 points from 15 matches, Craig Fulton's side now sits eighth in the FIH Pro League standings.

India's defense struggled throughout the match, particularly in the final quarter, allowing Belgium to score multiple goals. Despite winning more penalty corners than Belgium (nine compared to six), India's conversion rate was not sufficient to counter Belgium's attacking prowess.

The Indian team will conclude their Pro League campaign against Belgium on Sunday.