BHUBANESWAR: Ger­many and Belgium fought neck and neck to play out an exciting 2-2 draw in the FIH World Cup here at the Kalinga Stadium on Tuesday.In the pool ‘B’ match that swung from side to side, world and Olympic cha­m­pions Belgi­um survived a scare before sharing points with Germany.

Belgium showed good control in the opening quarter, ensuring 83 percent ball possession and pressurising Germany. They drew first blood in the 10th minute as Cedric Charlier, despite being challenged by three defen­ders, shot home in style.

Germany displayed more purpose and tested the Belgian defe­nce in the second quarter. After showing some promise, Germ­any found the equaliser when Niklas Wellen hit from the right and seasoned Belgian custodian Vincent Vanasch completely missed the line.

Following an anxious third period, a push from a Belgian defender inside the ‘D’ brought Germany a penalty stroke and Tom Gram­busch made no mistake to tilt the contest in favour of Germany.

Belgium maintained their composure and looked for the equaliser.

With five minutes left on the clock, an unmarked Victor Wegnez scored from the top of the circle to ensure another entertaining draw, which witnessed some heated moments.

Ken Nagayoshi’s second-minute penalty corner conversion put Japan ahead, but Korea fought back through to excellent field goals from Jungjun Lee to snatch an important win.

Meanwhile in another pool ‘B’ game, South Korea rallied to defeat Japan 2-1 at the same venue and stay alive in the showpiece.

Japan pressed hard and earned three short corners around the hooter but could not share the honours as Korean goalkeeper Jaehy­eon Kim made some exceptional saves.

Published in Dawn, January 18th, 2023