Indian men's hockey team defeated New Zealand 3-2 in their Tokyo Olympics opener on Saturday.
Kane Russell opened the scoring for New Zealand in 6' before Rupinder Pal Singh equalised in the 10'. Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals through penalty corner in the 26' and 33' respectively. Stephen Jenness scored New Zealand's second goal just before the end of third quarter in 43rd minute to set up an intense finish. India's tight defence and some good saves by Srijesh ensured India save their lead till the end of the match to defeat the Black Sticks.
Over at the Oi Hockey Stadium, Australia held off a comeback by hosts Japan for a 5–3 win in men's hockey Pool A.
The Aussies took a 2–0 lead before the hosts struck back to edge ahead 3–2, with a goal each in the third and fourth quarters sealing the victory.
