India bows out of Hockey World Cup after shootout loss to Belgium

The Indian men's hockey team's World Cup campaign came to an end with a heartbreaking 3-4 penalty shootout defeat against Belgium in their classification match for eighth place. The two teams played out an engaging draw through regular time, setting up a dramatic shootout that ultimately went in Belgium's favour.

The regulation draw showcased both teams' attacking intent and defensive resilience, with neither side able to break the deadlock through 60 minutes of play. The thrilling encounter kept spectators on edge as both squads pushed for the decisive goal that would have secured outright victory.

India's eighth-place finish at the tournament represented their final standing in what has been a challenging campaign at the global championship. The shootout loss, while disappointing, capped off a World Cup that saw the Indian squad face stiff competition from some of the world's leading hockey nations.

The result leaves India to reflect on their performance at the championship, with the team having contested closely against top-ranked sides throughout the tournament. Belgium's home advantage in the shootout proved decisive in a match that could have tilted either way.