Rival Watch: India to face Belgium in away leg of FIH Men’s Hockey Pro League 2022-23

India sit in top spot with 19 points from eight matches.

After a hat-trick of wins, the Indian men's hockey team is moving forward in the FIH Men’s Pro League to take on the powerhouses. The Tokyo Olympic bronze medalists are fresh off defeating the Australian team, continuing their unbeaten run in FIH Men's Hockey Pro League 2022-23.

As they move onto the next level, the competition is getting tougher for the team. The Indian squad will now fly to the United Kingdom where they will clash with Belgium and Great Britain. On 26th May, the nation will face off with the world's second-best team, Belgium, followed by a match with Great Britain. The last time India faced Belgium was back in June 2022, a contest which ended as a draw. 

About the team in FIH Men’s Hockey Pro League

The Red Lions, ranked second in FIH rankings, are the defending champions of the Olympic games. Moreover, they have reached the Olympic podium three times (2020 ,2016, and 1920). Over the past few years, they have been a strong force in the sport. In the recently concluded World Cup in January, Belgium finished as the runners-up, losing to Germany in the final.

Coach 

Former coach of the world's number one team, the Netherlands, Michel van den Heuvel joined the Belgium team in 2021. Last year he guided the team to the FIH Men’s Hockey Pro League finals, where they secured the second position. Notably, he has 436 caps under his belt, proving his years of experience.

Belgium Players to watch out against India in FIH Men’s Hockey Pro League

Félix Denayer

The 33-year-old captain has tasted two consutive Olympic wins with the Belgium team, first in 2016 and then in 2020. Moreover, he has represented the country four times at the mega games. Coming in with years of experience leading one of the world's best teams, he would do everything to bring the trophy home. 

Alexander Hendrickx

29-year-old has been part of 85 wins for Belgium during his career. One of the favorites on the team, he led the team to their historic Olympic gold medal victory during the Tokyo Olympics Games 2020. The Indian goalkeeping legend, PR Sreejesh needs to watch out for Hendrickx who can be an unstoppable force. 

What to expect in the FIH Men’s Hockey Pro League 2022-23 games

There are no doubts about the Indian team's form being at its peak under the captaincy of Harmanpreet Singh. However, the Belgium team has proved its exceptional skills to stay at the top many times. After outclassing the Australian team, India will look to continue their rich form in London. While they will also keep in mind the Red Lions' hunger to take home the silverware. This will be the first test for head coach Craig Fulton.