As Pool C concluded matches, India and Belgium registered identical big wins of 5-1. Indians sealed quarterfinal spot while Belgium and Canada entered crossover as second and third team from Pool C. 15th-seed South Africa was eliminated.
Pool Summary
Matches: 6
Results: 4
Draw: 2
Goals: 26
South Africa eliminated, India finishes on top ahead of World Number 3 Belgium.
Summary of Match 1: Belgium defeat South Africa 5-1
The Red Lions required a win to challenge India for the top place finish in Pool C. South Africa needed at least a win or draw to challenge Canada for Crossover. South Africans scored the quickest goal of tournament in 1st minute raising the hopes. But, Belgium then struck five goals to make sure that unless Indians win they will finish on top of the Pool.
Summary of Match 2: India defeat Canada 5-1
India played Canada for the fifth time in World Cup and knowing that they needed just a win to avoid crossover. They started with a goal from Harmanpreet through penalty corner in first quarter. Canadians created scare among Indian fans when they equalized in third quarter. But, the fourth quarter saw India scoring three goals in first 7 minutes and sealing the fate of Pool C.
Final Positions
India on top, Belgium second and Canada third as 15th-ranked South Africa was eliminated. In crossover, Belgium will play the third placed team of Group D while Canada will play the second placed team of Group D. Winner of Canada’s crossover will play India in the quarterfinal.
(Info Courtesy: www.newschoupal.com)
