Tom Boon's Hat-Trick Inspires Belgium's Stunning Comeback Win Over Argentina

Belgium mounted a determined second-half comeback to defeat Argentina 5-3 in a men's FIH Pro League match in Rourkela. Argentina dominated early, building a 3-1 lead through penalty corners from Tomas Domene and Nicolas della Torre. The match turned on a spectacular hat-trick by Belgian star Tom Boon, whose overhead strike before halftime shifted the momentum. Belgium sealed the victory with clinical penalty strokes in the second half, strengthening their league position.

Key Points: Belgium 5-3 Argentina: Tom Boon Hat-Trick in FIH Pro League

  • Tom Boon hat-trick
  • Belgium's second-half comeback
  • Argentina's early 3-1 lead
  • Victory sealed with penalty strokes
  • Black armbands for teammate's loss
2 min read

FIH Pro League: Tom Boon hat-trick helps Belgium stage second-half comeback to beat Argentina

Belgium stages a thrilling second-half comeback to beat Argentina 5-3 in the FIH Pro League, powered by a Tom Boon hat-trick in Rourkela.

"Star forward Tom Boon led the comeback with a brilliant hat-trick... which lifted his team's morale and changed the momentum of the game. - Report"

Rourkela, Feb 11

Former World and Olympic champions Belgium produced a thrilling second-half comeback to defeat Argentina 5-3 in the FIH Pro League men's hockey match at the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium on Tuesday.

Argentina started the match on a strong note and took an early lead through Tomas Domene, who converted a penalty corner in the 2nd minute. Nicolas della Torre doubled the advantage in the 9th minute with another penalty corner. Argentina added their third goal in the 24th minute, once again from a penalty corner, to go 3-1 ahead and dominate the first half.

Belgium, however, responded with determination and resilience. Star forward Tom Boon led the comeback with a brilliant hat-trick, including a spectacular overhead strike just before the end of the first quarter, which lifted his team's morale and changed the momentum of the game.

In the second half, Belgium intensified their attacking play and displayed clinical finishing. Two successful penalty strokes further strengthened their lead and sealed the victory for the Red Lions.

Despite several acrobatic saves by Argentina goalkeeper Tomas Santiago, the South American side could not stop Belgium's relentless pressure in the latter stages of the match.

The Belgian players wore black armbands as a mark of respect for teammate Thibeau Stockbroekx's father, who recently passed away, adding emotional significance to their impressive performance.

With this victory, Belgium strengthened their position in the Pro League standings. At the same time, Argentina will look to bounce back quickly in their upcoming matches, including their next encounter against hosts India.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As a neutral fan, this is why I love hockey. The momentum shift was incredible. Respect to the Belgian team for playing with such heart, especially given the personal loss. Sport can be so emotional.
P
Priya S
Argentina's defense collapsed in the second half. They were so good in the first 30 minutes! Our Indian team should study this match closely before facing them. We need to maintain pressure for the full 60 minutes.
V
Vikram M
Brilliant game! But a small note for the organizers in Rourkela - the pitch seemed a bit slow in the first half. Hope it's perfect for our Indian team's matches. We need every advantage at home. Jai Hind!
R
Rohit P
Tom Boon is a world-class player, no doubt. But our very own Harmanpreet Singh can match him on his day! Looking forward to a cracker of a tournament. Hope the stadium is packed for the India games.
M
Michael C
The penalty corner conversion rate in this match was fascinating. 3 for Argentina early on, then Belgium took control. It shows set-pieces are still king in modern hockey. Great advert for the Pro League.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50