2nd Match Hockey World Cup 2018 (Men's)

Odisha Hockey World Cup

 Bhubaneswar 2018 (Men’s)

BLG Vs CAD

Belgium  Beat The  Canada

  Belgium                           2 - 1                       Canada

 Match Highlights

v Briels strike gives Belgium’s Red Lions narrow victory over Canada

v "We started pretty well, especially knowing it was the first match of the World Cup so there were a few nerves” - Felix Denayer

v Sell-out crowd witnesses first day of action at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium

Bhubaneswar, India: 

Belgium’s Red Lions (FIH Hero World Ranking: 3) were outstanding in the first quarter of the World Cup opener, taking an early lead against Canada (WR:11) thanks to third minute goal from Felix Denayer before Thomas Briels had a goal ruled out by the video umpire. Red Lions captain Briels was not to be denied though, firing home a brilliant half volley mid-way through the second quarter, with Odisha Player of the Match Arthur Van Doren the supplier. 


While Belgium were dominant in the first two periods, Canada grew in stature as the game progressed and really hit form in the fourth quarter, enjoying a period of sustained pressure before Mark Pearson reduced the deficit when he forced home from close range. However, the Belgians remained composed in the latter stages to get their campaign off to a winning start.