PTC Web Desk: India men’s hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh has described Saturday’s Hockey World Cup second-round clash against reigning Olympic champions Netherlands as a “do-or-die” encounter, saying the team must maintain its intensity and play quality hockey for all 60 minutes.

India advanced to the second round after defeating Wales and Pakistan in Pool D but suffered a defeat against England. As a result, India will enter the second round without any points.

England will carry three points from its victory over India, while Netherlands will also start the second round with three points after progressing from Pool A. India, therefore, need victories against Netherlands and Argentina to keep their hopes of reaching the semi-finals alive.

Harmanpreet stresses full-match focus

As per a news agency, Harmanpreet said India cannot afford to perform well for only one quarter and must remain focused until the final whistle. He stressed that even after taking the lead, the team's approach and intensity must remain unchanged.

“Playing well for one quarter will not be enough. All 60 minutes are important, and we have to perform well throughout the match. Even after taking the lead, there should be no change in our style or attitude. Until the final whistle, our body language and fighting spirit must remain the same,” Harmanpreet said.

India Working on defensive mistakes

The Indian captain revealed that the team has analysed videos of its mistakes from the last three matches and is focused on avoiding similar errors against the Netherlands. He said a strong defensive performance would give India the confidence to create opportunities inside the opposition circle and earn penalty corners.

“We have analysed our mistakes from the last three matches. The focus will be on not repeating them. If our defence remains strong, we know we can enter the opposition circle, create chances and win penalty corners. We cannot concede goals because of our own mistakes,” he said.

India have recent win over Netherlands

India defeated the Netherlands 3-2 in the FIH Pro League in June, a result that Harmanpreet believes can provide confidence ahead of Saturday's crucial encounter.

He said India maintained possession effectively in that match and did not allow the Dutch side to easily win the ball in India's half.

“If we can play intelligently with the same strategy and energy, we can repeat that performance,” Harmanpreet said.

Harmanpreet also praised the contribution of young players, including Rajinder, Jugraj and Dilpreet, while highlighting the experience available across India's different lines.

Also Read | Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand create history, end India’s 14-year women’s doubles medal wait