Sports Bulletin

ISLAMABAD (faisal): Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has invited 40 players from different departments for a national training camp, which will get underway here at Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium, Pakistan Sports Complex from July 31. The final selected team will participate in the Asian Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament.Pakistan Hockey Federation asked players to report to Camp Commandant Olympian Sheikh Usman at 2 pm on July 31 at the Naseer Banda Hockey Stadium, Pakistan Sports Complex Islamabad. Asian Men’s Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament will be held in Hollenbeur, China from September 8 to September 17, 2024.Names of invited players: Abdullah Ishtiaq Khan (Mari Petroleum), Muneebur Rahman (ZTBL), Ali Raza (Punjab), Mohammad Abdullah (Mari Petroleum), Ehtisham Aslam (ZTBL), Mohammad Sufyan Khan (Mari Petroleum), Imad Shakeel Butt (National Bank), Abubakar Mahmood (National Bank), Arshad Liaquat (Mari Petroleum), Rana Abdul Waheed Ashraf (WAPDA), Moin Shakeel (WAPDA), Mohammad Salman Razak (WAPDA), Murtaza Yaqub (WAPDA), Abdul Hanan Shahid (WAPDA), Ijaz Ahmed (WAPDA), Abdul Rehman (Air Force), Osama Bashir (Air Force), Zakaria Hayat (Navy), Ghazanfar Ali (Customs), Hammaduddin Anjum (WAPDA), Roman (WAPDA), Abdul Rehman (WAPDA), Aqeel Ahmed (WAPDA), Abdul Manan (Customs), Arbaz Ahmed (Mari Petroleum), Afraz (Mari Petroleum), Basharat Ali (Navy), Mohammad Nadeem Khan (KPK), Junaid Manzoor (National Bank). Ahmed Nadeem (Punjab), Mohsin Khan (Air Force), Rao Arsalan (Pak Army), Waseem (Pak Army), Rizwan Ali (Air Force), Samin (Punjab), Aleem Usman (WAPDA), Faisal Qadir (National Bank), Shahzeb Khawar (Punjab), Hammad Ali (Navy), Abdul Rehman (Punjab Rangers). 

Paris (France): With the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium bathed in sunshine, the women’s team of Belgium, Germany, Australia and Spain all secured victories in their first matches at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. In the men’s competition, Germany suffered defeat at the hands of Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands emerged triumphant, and South Africa and Great Britain played out a pulsating draw.Women’s Pool A: Belgium started their Olympic campaign with a hard fought 2-1 victory over China thanks to a superb, roofed finish from Charlotte Engelbert with five minutes remaining. “There were good things and bad things”, said Belgium’s Emma Puvrez on the occasion of her 200th international appearance. “China is a very good team to play against, they're very technical as well as physical so it was a difficult start for us.”Germany also began their quest for gold positively as goals from Charlotte Stapenhorst and Nike Lorenz secured a 2-0 win over Japan. "We created loads of chances but they defended really well”, said Stapenhorst. “I think we're just glad that we got this tournament started."Germany and Belgium moved level on points with Day 1 winners the Netherlands, with the Oranje’s superior goal difference keeping them top of the standings. Women’s Pool B: Australia and Spain kept pace with Day 1 winners Argentina by snatching narrow wins against South Africa and Great Britain respectively. The Hockeyroos fought back from a goal down to beat the African continental champions, with Stephanie Kershaw and Tatum Stewart on target to give the three-time Olympic gold medallists a 2-1 win. "It was very tough”, said Australia’s Kaitlyn Nobbs. “They came out with a lot of energy and we tried to match it. But I think we built really well into the game and eventually got the results."Rio 2016 gold and Tokyo 2020 bronze medallists Great Britain suffered defeat in their competition opener, with Barcelona 1992 gold medallists Spain earning a 2-1 triumph courtesy of early goals from Laura Barrios and Lola Reira."[Great Britain] compete very well in these kinds of tournaments”, said Spain’s Reira. “This match was important because it was the first one, but also because we faced them. They have a lot of experience and it gives them strength."Men’s Pool A: Spain recorded the most eye-catching result of the day with a superb 2-0 victory over Germany, with goals from Jose Maria Basterra and Pepe Cunill kickstarting the Red Sticks’ Olympic challenge. The result left Spain sitting fourth in the table, level on points with Germany who are third due to their superior goal difference.The Netherlands sit proudly at the top of Pool B thanks to a comprehensive 4-0 win against France, with the home fans once again making an incredible noise throughout the contest. Tijmen Reyenga, Koen Bijen, Jonas de Geus and Duco Telgenkamp all netted for the Oranje, with Bijen describing scoring his first Olympic goal as “a really special and emotional moment, with my family watching in the stands”.The contest was also noteworthy for being the first Olympic hockey match to feature mixed gender on-field umpiring teams, with Irene Presenqui (ARG) and Sean Rapaport (RSA) calling the contest. More details about this story can be found here. Great Britain ended the day second in Pool A after a late penalty corner deflection from Rupert Shipperley snatched a 2-2 draw against South Africa. Despite being disappointed on missing out on all three points, South Africa’s Dayaan Cassiem felt proud of his team’s performance. “Our energy was much better today, I think we really came out firing”, said Cassiem. “I’m really proud of the boys. Men’s Pool B: In the day’s only Pool B match, reigning Olympic champions Belgium overcame a monumental challenge from New Zealand’s Black Sticks to emerge 2-1 winners thanks to goals from Alexander Hendrickx and Florent van Aubel. The result puts Belgium clear at the top of the pool, although they have played a game more than nearest rivals India and Australia, who are both in action on Monday (29 July).Notable figures in attendance on Day 2 included Spanish royals Leonor, Princess of Asturias and Infanta Sofia as well as Bollywood actor Amol Palekar, Spanish National Olympic Committee President Alejandro Blanco Bravo and Chris Jenkins, the President of the Commonwealth Games. (PR)

Sports Bulletin ReportParis (France): Reigning men’s world champions Germany stole the headlines on the opening day of the hockey competition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 thanks to an impressive victory over host nation France at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. There were also wins for the men’s teams of Great Britain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Australia and India, while the women of Argentina and the Netherlands also prevailed on a rainy but hugely entertaining day. Men’s Pool A: Germany, Great Britain and the Netherlands opened their respective Olympic campaigns with victories, getting early points on the board in the race to reach the quarter finals. Great Britain claimed a 4-0 victory against Spain, although the match was far closer than the scoreline would suggest. The Red Sticks impressed in the early stages but GB were exceptional in front of goal with Nick Park, Gareth Furlong (2) and Rupert Shipperley all on target. Park’s stunning chipped finish opened the Olympic scoring in style, with the man himself describing it as “the best goal I’ve ever scored”.The Netherlands versus South Africa game was a thrilling encounter, with the Oranje snatching a 5-3 win thanks to strikes from Jip Janssen (2), Jonas de Geus, Tjep Hoedemakers and Duco Telgenkamp. “We were happy with the first half, we played very well and were strong defensively but the second half was a bit messy”, said double goal-scorer Janssen. “South Africa have some very good players (who are) world class, so you can never underestimate them.”Germany stormed to an 8-2 victory over host nation France, with the packed stands creating an astonishing atmosphere. Germany were ruthless in front of goal, with Justus Weigand and Niklas Wellen both scoring doubles alongside contributions from Thies Prinz and a goal each for captain Mats Grambusch and his younger brother Tom. "It's an awesome start, it's definitely how we wanted to start the tournament”, said Germany’s Christopher Rühr. "Absolutely amazing atmosphere. To play France in France as a start is something you dream of, and I think we managed to play really well."Men’s Pool B: While Belgium, Australia and India were all recorded wins, the Pool B matches were fiercely contested. Reigning Olympic champions Belgium were given a stern test by Ireland before emerging 2-0 winners thanks to strikes from Tom Boon and Alexander Hendrickx. Speaking after the match, Hendrickx said: "It was a good performance. It’s not our best performance, but it’s logical that we want to grow during the tournament, to do each game better and better. It’s a good base to start on.”Blake Govers scored a stunning penalty corner drag-flick as Tokyo 2020 silver medallists Australia battled to a hard earned 1-0 victory over Rio 2016 gold medallists Argentina. Govers was full of praise for Los Leones, stating: “We know the Argentinians are a really good outfit, they defend really well. We got a couple more chances, but we’re pretty happy. It’s the Olympics, so a win is a good result.”The India versus New Zealand clash was another tight affair, with Harmanpreet Singh’s late penalty stroke sealing a 3-2 win for the eight times Olympic champions. Talking about how he kept his nerve from the penalty spot, Harmanpreet said: "It's a mental thing. You need to stay focused and just go for it. I tried to manipulate the goalie with my eyes and it worked, but the win is all because of the team."Women’s Pool A: Yibbi Janssen scored four times as the Netherlands opening their Olympic title defence with a 6-2 triumph over host nation France. However, it was still a memorable moment for the Olympic debutants, with Yohanna L’Hopital and Paola Le Nindre sending the home fans into raptures with goals against the reigning Olympic, World, European and FIH Hockey Pro League champions. Although proud moments for the home favourites, it was the Oranje who made the perfect start as they bid to claim their fifth Olympic gold medal. Women’s Pool B: Tokyo 2020 silver medallists Argentina were 4-1 winners in their Pan American derby match against USA, with Rocio Sanchez - Argentina’s flagbearer in Friday’s dazzling opening ceremony – Agustina Gorzelany, Julieta Jankunas and Zoe Diaz netting for Las Leonas. Commenting on the support of the Argentina fans in the stadium, Maria Campoy – who made her 100th appearance for her country – said: "You can feel the chants and the support. Argentines are always everywhere, and they support us a lot."

Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): In the annals of Olympic history, few stories are as inspiring as that of the Zimbabwe women’s hockey team, affectionately known as the "Golden Girls." Their triumph at the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games is a testament to the power of determination, unity, and passion for the sport. In an exclusive interview with Ann Grant, the captain of the team, we delve into the incredible journey of these pioneering women.The Road to Moscow: In late June 1980, an air of excitement enveloped the newly formed nation of Zimbabwe. The women’s hockey team had been invited to participate in the XXII Olympic Games, marking the first time women’s hockey was included as an Olympic discipline. For Zimbabwe, which had just gained independence in April of that year, this was more than just a sporting competition; it was a chance to put their fledgling nation on the world map.Ann Grant recalls the moment they received the invitation: “Our team was extremely excited to be invited to the XXII Olympic Games, especially as it was the first time women’s hockey was an Olympic discipline and our new nation of Zimbabwe was only formally confirmed in April 1980.”Initially, the team’s destination was South Africa for an annual interprovincial tournament. However, in a surprising turn of events, they were instead invited to the Moscow Olympics. With just a month to prepare, the team had to hastily organize passports, uniforms, and a multitude of administrative details, all while securing a month’s leave from their employers. The Zimbabwe National Olympic Committee worked tirelessly to ensure everything was in order, while the players juggled their full-time jobs with increased hockey practices and matches against men's teams to prepare for the games.Arrival in Moscow: Arriving in Moscow ten days before the start of the Olympics, the team faced the challenge of adapting to artificial turf, something none of the players had ever experienced. Daily practices at local stadiums were invaluable in getting accustomed to this new surface. Despite the logistical hurdles and the unfamiliar environment, the team’s spirit remained unbroken.Ann vividly remembers their initial days in Moscow: “We were taken to the super new Olympic Village with amenities open 24 hours and then rushed off to get new hockey shoes as not one of us had ever played on artificial turf, including our coach!”The Olympic Experience: Walking into Lenin Stadium for the opening ceremony was a moment of awe and pride for the Zimbabwe team. Dressed in their bright blue uniforms, they marched with their new national flag flying high. The atmosphere in the Olympic Village was electric, and the team had the chance to meet other Olympic champions like Daley Thompson and Sir Sebastian Coe.Ann describes the opening ceremony: “The aura from the beautiful stadium, the magnitude of the many spectators, and the sheer joy of being a part of this momentous occasion was a mind-blowing experience.”The Zimbabwe women’s hockey team was an enthusiastic and determined group, resolute in their mission to give their best on the field. Under the expert guidance of coach Anthea Stewart, they adapted their tactics to face unknown opponents and displayed remarkable tenacity and skill.The Golden Moment: The women’s hockey tournament was conducted on a round-robin basis, featuring teams from Russia, Czechoslovakia, Poland, India, Austria, and Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe remained unbeaten heading into their final match against Austria. The victory secured them the gold medal, making history as the first winners in Olympic women’s hockey and earning Zimbabwe its first-ever Olympic gold.Ann recalls the moment of victory: “It is difficult to express our feelings of sheer joy and excitement of our achievement! We stood on that red carpet to receive our gold medals from Mr. Reg Alexander, IOC member from Kenya, and Mr. Renee Frank, the President of the International Hockey Federation. The unforgettable moment our flag was raised with the beautiful Olympic hymn playing in the background.”Celebrations and Legacy: The reception back home in Zimbabwe was nothing short of spectacular. The team was welcomed with a guard of honor by school drum majorettes and a huge crowd of fans and their families. Several functions were organized to celebrate their achievement, ensuring that all Zimbabweans could share in this historic moment.The legacy of the Golden Girls continues to inspire future generations of hockey players in Zimbabwe. The annual Golden Girls Hockey Tournament, held every July, keeps the spirit of their victory alive. Many of the team members have gone on to coach at various levels, giving back to the sport that brought them together.A Fairytale to Remember: The team’s journey was meticulously documented in a handwritten diary, capturing every moment of their Olympic adventure.Ann recounts how it all came about: “Our coach, Anthea Stewart, made a team rule of writing the day's events and happenings in a handwritten diary to document, from beginning to end, the story of our own Olympic journey – this was written in the same order as your team number. What incredible memoirs “Dear Diary” has safely tucked inside, with many laughs as we read through the various stories but also tears, as we remember our dear vice-captain and wonderful leader Liz Chase who has sadly passed on.”These memoirs, filled with laughter and tears, are a cherished testament to their incredible story. Despite being scattered around the globe, the remaining members of the Golden Girls maintain close contact, bonded by their shared history and the lifelong friendships forged during their golden moment.Their story, as recounted by Ann Grant, is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with determination, unity, and a love for the game. The Golden Girls’ victory at the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games remains one of the most inspirational chapters in the history of women’s hockey and Zimbabwean sport.

Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has updated the world hockey ranking and the Netherlands is number 1 while Great Britain spotted second place. Pakistan is still crawling in the 16th position in the men’s ranking.In the women’s world rankings, Netherlands (3534) continue to be the dominant force at the top of the rankings. A second consecutive Pro League title, their fourth in the five seasons of the event, came after yet another excellent season where they won 15 out of their 16 games! Such is Netherlands’ dominance, that their 571-point lead over second placed Argentina (2963) is nearly as big as the 583-points that cover Argentina in second all the way down to China in eighth place on the world ranking table. Germany (2834), who achieved their best ever finish in the FIH Hockey Pro League as runners-up, are ranked third in the world, and look among the strongest contenders for a podium place finish in Paris 2024. Belgium (2771) in fourth and Australia (2743) in fifth are two more teams that had impressive ends to their Pro League seasons as they make a strong case for medal contention at the Olympics. England (2443) in sixth, Spain (2409) in seventh and China (2380) in eighth are separated by less than 65 points. Each of the three teams have shown they are capable of playing excellent hockey and it would not be a surprise to see them punch above their weight at Paris 2024. In the men’s world rankings, Netherlands (3069) continue to remain in the top spot, which they have held for nearly a year now. While Netherlands fell short of retaining their FIH Pro League title, their season was still littered with impressive wins as they finished second in the table. England (2986) have closed the gap to Netherlands in the world rankings but stay second in the standings following a title fight in the Pro League, before eventually settling for a third place. Belgium (2939) had an up and down season in the Pro League, but a final day win over Netherlands sees them climb into third place in the world rankings, ahead of FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 winners Australia (2921), who find themselves in the fourth spot. Less than hundred points cover teams between fifth and seventh places. World Cup winners Germany (2765) find themselves in fifth, followed by Argentina (2690), who had a much improved season in the FIH Hockey Pro League as they finished fourth, four places better than their previous campaign where they came close to getting embroiled in a relegation battle. A poor European leg of the Pro League saw India (2688) drop a lot of points in the Pro League as well as the world rankings, where they now find themselves in seventh, just two points behind Argentina. Spain (2365), eighth in the world rankings, lead a quartet of teams all headed to the Olympics. Hosts France (2241) find themselves in ninth, following an impressive showing at the FIH Hockey Nations Cup, where they finished as runners up. New Zealand (2219) were the winners of the Nations Cup, qualifying for the upcoming season of the FIH Hockey Pro League and round out the top-10 in the world rankings. Ireland (2043) found it tough going in their first Pro League season, but two late season wins against Belgium showcased the improvement in the side headed into the Olympics, as the eleventh ranked team in the world.

Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 will be co-organised by Belgium and the Netherlands, as an official signing of the hosting agreement at a ceremony involving FIH President Tayyab Ikram, Dutch Hockey Association President Erik Klein Nagelvoort and CEO Erik Gerritsen as well as Belgian Hockey Association President Patrick Keusters and CEO Serge Pilet.The signing took place on the occasion of the FIH Hockey Pro League matches currently being played at the Wagener Stadium in Amsterdam, Netherlands, one of the two venues of the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, together with the stadium of Wavre, in Belgium, that is currently under construction. The 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup will combine the women’s and the men’s tournaments and will be played in the host countries’ summertime, from 14 to 30 August 2026.FIH President Tayyab Ikram said: “I would like to start with a heartfelt thank you to the Belgian and Dutch Hockey Associations and authorities for having committed to organising the next edition of the FIH Hockey World Cup - an event that will unite our best women's and men's teams from around the world in one big, fantastic joint event, 12 years after the last joint World Cup in The Hague, which was a spectacular success.The Hockey World Cup holds special significance as the global hallmark event of our sport, where the best hockey athletes show their talent and skill, and taking place every four years and between Olympic Games, it is also a great opportunity to witness the changing of the guard and see up-and-coming new contenders and emerging talents.The Netherlands and Belgium are two countries where hockey is alive and thriving, and will undoubtedly make this World Cup an outstanding spectacle that will be an event to remember, and the renovations planned at the iconic Wagener Stadium and the construction of a brand-new hockey stadium in Wavre ensure a lasting legacy for hockey for years to come. I look forward to working with the two countries' National Associations, together with the FIH professional staff, and supporting them to make this the best Hockey World Cup ever.So, I am pleased to invite all hockey fans from around the world to join us in Belgium and the Netherlands in 2 years' time to experience the incredible show that the local organisers will undoubtedly put together and the wonderful hospitality of our hosts, but most importantly of course, to see, to admire and to cheer for your heroes, the amazing athletes at the heart of our sport”.KNHB President Erik Klein Nagelvoort said: “We are delighted to host the combined Men’s and Women’s World Cup together with Belgium. We are looking forward to two weeks of great hockey in a packed Wagener Stadion in Amsterdam/Amstelveen in August 2026. Together with Belgium and FIH we are aiming for reaching millions of existing and new hockey fans both in Netherlands and around the world and to promote hockey better than ever before.”Hockey Belgium President Patrick Keusters is enthusiastic: “I’m really happy the hosting agreement with FIH is signed now. This means we can officially kick off the organisation of the biggest international hockey event ever organised on Belgian soil. Our new stadium in Wavre will be the theatre of world class hockey games, showcasing our sport, but also our event organising know-how to millions of Belgian and international spectators. I’m really looking forward to the collaboration with our friends and colleagues of the Dutch federation. I am convinced that together we will be able to put the “Lowlands” on the top of the world once again!”

Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): Great Britain’s men ended their FIH Hockey Pro League campaign with a shootout loss to Germany in Amsterdam on Friday, but the point they earned for the draw saw them moving above Argentina to secure third spot in the standings.Meanwhile, after suffering their first defeat of the season to the Red Panthers four days ago, the Netherlands women turned the tables on Belgium, surviving a close final quarter to secure a 2-1 win.(Men’s) Germany 3 – 3 Great Britain (SO: 4 – 2): Germany came from behind twice in an enthralling 3-3 draw with Great Britain, then grabbing an extra point for their 4-2 win in the shootout. Sam Ward had a sharp shot in the second minute but was denied by a diving Jean-Paul Danneberg in the German goal. A minute later it was Niklas Wellen who fired the Germans ahead with a sensational first-time reverse shot. Phil Roper equalised for GB with some cheeky aerial skills in the 15th minute, and Ward then edged GB in front with his 21st-minute penalty stroke. Wellen levelled for Germany with a sizzling penalty corner strike, which meant it was evenly poised at half time.The Germans got their defensive angles slightly wrong early in the second half and Liam Sanford punished them for it, threading a magnificent ball through the centre channel to a diving Ward for the deflection into the net. GB seemed to have the upper hand as the match progressed, and Danneberg had to make two crucial saves to keep Germany in touch before Gonzalo Peillat snatched the draw from a penalty corner with three minutes remaining. Germany then held their nerve to maintain an unbeaten record from their four shootouts in the tournament.(Women’s) Netherlands 2 – 1 Belgium: The Netherlands returned to winning ways with a 2-1 victory over Belgium in front of a vocal home crowd. The Dutch clearly meant business after their shock defeat to the same opposition earlier in the week and it took just six minutes for Yibbi Jansen to fire them ahead from a penalty corner. They went on to dominate possession and territory throughout the first half, threatening the Red Panthers' circle frequently and giving Elodi Picard plenty of work to do in the Belgian goal. Jansen slammed in a second from a recycled penalty corner and it looked like a big score might be on the cards.The Dutch continued to attack through the third quarter, but Belgium started getting more ball as the match progressed. Stephanie Vanden Borre pulled one back from a penalty corner in the 41st minute, and with the Belgians growing in confidence, the match was set for a thrilling finish. Belgium took full control in the fourth quarter and the Dutch suddenly found themselves under sustained periods of pressure, rarely getting out of their own half. There was drama in the final minute when Belgium appeared to have earned a penalty corner, but the Netherlands successfully overturned the decision with their review and then ran the clock down to secure the win.

Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): The 2024 Oceania Indoor World Cup Qualifiers came to an end with Australia men and women claiming the title, as both teams secured their spots at the upcoming FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup 2025, which will be played in Poreč, Croatia from 3-9 February 2025. With Australia's qualification, all 12 men's and women's qualification spots for the upcoming World Cup have been filled! In the men’s tournament, Australia came fast out of the gates in the first two contests. They took a 3 goal lead in the first half of the first game and scored 4 unanswered goals to start the second game. Although New Zealand battled back in both encounters, Australia won the games 5-3 and 4-2 to secure 6 out of the 9 available points to seal their qualification to the FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup Croatia 2025. New Zealand won the third and final match 3-2, which showed how evenly matched the two teams were, but the three points they earned from it were merely consolation. In the women’s tournament, the opening game was a tense affair with both defences holding strong for much of the match. After three goalless quarters, Australia finally broke the deadlock in the 34th minute through a Kelsey Hughes goal and held on to that slender lead till the final whistle to take all three points. The second match was a much more entertaining affair as Australia scored early and held the lead twice but New Zealand bounced back both times to draw the match 3-3, and split the points, setting up a crucial final match to decide the World Cup qualification. New Zealand twice took the lead in the final game but Australia mounted comebacks both times and the third game ended with an identical scoreline to the second, with teams finishing tied at 3-3. Australia finished the event with 5 points while New Zealand settled for second place with 2 points, making it a double delight for Australia in qualifying for the upcoming FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup 2025. In the men’s tournament the teams competing for the title will be Croatia (hosts), Austria, Belgium, Germany and Poland (Europe), Argentina and Trinidad and Tobago (Pan America), Iran and Malaysia (Asia), Namibia and South Africa (Africa) and Australia (Oceania). In the women’s tournament challenging for the title will be Croatia (hosts), Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Germany, Poland and Spain (Europe), USA (Pan America), Thailand (Asia), Namibia and South Africa (Africa) and Australia (Oceania).

Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): The Netherlands men came from a goal down to beat Belgium and so keep their FIH Hockey Pro League title hopes alive. Australia currently top the standings but the Dutch can still overtake them with victory in their remaining two matches.(Women’s) Belgium beat Great Britain (2-1): Belgium lacked their usual intensity after a memorable victory over the Netherlands just 20 hours earlier, but still managed to grind out a 2-1 win over Great Britain. The Red Panthers went ahead in the 80th second of an action-packed first quarter when Ambre Ballenghien reacted fastest to a scrappy ball in front of goal.Charlotte Watson hit back with a penalty stroke for GB after their PC struck Stephanie Vanden Borre’s foot on the line. It was then Vanessa Blockmans who slapped the Belgians back in front from a penalty corner in the 9th minute, and only an excellent reflex save from Jessica Buchanan denied them a third after GB were dispossessed outside their own circle. There were fewer opportunities in the second quarter with both teams missing from penalty corners, but GB enjoyed repeated success in disrupting the Belgians with a high press.The British side earned a penalty corner early in the third quarter and it took a triple save from Elodie Picard to keep it out. They held a slight advantage through the rest of the period, but struggled in the final third of the pitch and never really threatened the circle.Charlotte Englebert fired a great opportunity for Belgium over the crossbar in the fourth quarter before GB created some real chances, mishitting a shot from the top of the circle, and having a penalty corner saved before hitting the crossbar from the rebound and then pushing the third shot wide. GB substituted their goalkeeper with just under five minutes left on the clock, but they still couldn’t find a goal. The Red Panthers also missed one golden opportunity, failing to control the ball behind the GB defence with an empty goal beckoning, but they had done enough to clinch the win.(Men’s) Netherlands beat Belgium (3-1): The Netherlands kept their ambitions of winning a third straight title alive with a heated 3-1 win over Belgium. Good defence from both teams meant that there was little opportunity in the first half. But Belgium scored a well-worked goal in the 18th minute, breaking out of defence quickly and finding Tom Boon for a difficult shot near the p-spot.The second half served up expansive hockey from both teams. The Dutch created three excellent opportunities in the first five minutes, and tempers ran high when a shot after the whistle struck a Belgian defender. The Red Lions counterattacked to earn two penalty corners, but the Dutch runners blocked both.Jip Janssen eventually equalised for the Netherlands with a 41st-minute drag flick, and the quarter ended just after Tijmen Reyenga cannoned the Dutch ahead with 10 seconds left on the clock. The Netherlands carried their momentum into the final quarter and Joep de Mol sealed the result with a brilliant individual goal, carrying the ball from his own half and unleashing a sizzling strike from the top of the circle. Belgium substituted their goalkeeper in the dying minutes, but they couldn’t find another goal.

Sports Bulletin ReportAmsterdam (Holland): The final stage of the FIH Pro League 2023/24 season is about to get underway in the Netherlands with matches to be played in Utrecht and Amsterdam from 22 to 30 June. Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Great Britain will all be in action in the men's and women's competitions, with both titles still up for grabs.Netherlands currently stand at the top of women's standings with 36 points having won all 12 games so far this season. With 4 games left in the season, Netherlands hold an 8-point lead over Germany in third place, and the Danas could halt the Dutch title charge but will require other teams to take points off the hosts as well. Argentina, who finished their campaign earlier during the Antwerp stage, are second with 34 points from 16 games. Belgium and Great Britain, on 19 and 14 points respectively are out of contention for the title, but will still aim to hit their strides fully, with the Olympic Games just a month away.In the men's competition, Australia, who finished their campaign on 34 points are currently in pole position for their second title. But Netherlands with 26 points and Great Britain with 22 points are also in contention with 4 games in hand. Germany and Belgium can't mathematically catch up to the Kookaburras as they sit on 19 points from 12 games, with 31 points being the maximum either of them can reach if they win all their remaining 4 games.Schedule (Women's):22 June, 16:00 (Local Time) Netherlands vs Germany24 June, 15:00 (Local Time) Great Britain vs Germany24 June 20:30 (Local Time) Netherlands vs Belgium25 June 17:30 (Local Time) Great Britain vs Belgium27 June 14:00 (Local Time) Germany vs Great Britain28 June 19:00 (Local Time) Netherlands vs Belgium29 June 16:30 (Local Time) Belgium vs Great Britain29 June 19:00 (Local Time) Netherlands vs GermanySchedule (Men's):23 June, 13:30 (Local Time) Great Britain vs Belgium23 June, 16:00 (Local Time) Netherlands vs Germany24 June 17:30 (Local Time) Germany vs Great Britain 25 June 20:00 (Local Time) Netherlands vs Belgium27 June 16:30 (Local Time) Great Britain vs Belgium27 June 19:00 (Local Time) Netherlands vs Germany28 June 16:30 (Local Time) Germany vs Great Britain30 June 15:00 (Local Time) Netherlands vs Belgium.