India’s poor run of form in the 2025-26 FIH Men’s Pro League continued as they lost their opening match 0-2 against Spain in Hobart on Saturday, February 21. Goals from Ignacio Abaj and Ignacio Cobos proved decisive. Spain’s disciplined defensive organization and clinical finishing secured the result and set the tone for their campaign, while India failed to convert attacking opportunities.
India entered the Hobart match in miserable form having lost all four matches at home in Rourkela to Argentina and Belgium, conceding 19 goals in the process. They were also without the services of Harmanpreet Singh, with Hardik Singh taking the tape. However, this was not enough to turn the fortune around.
HOW WAS THE MATCH GOING?
The game started with Spain taking an early lead in the 6th minute through Ignacio Abaja who finished off a quick counter attack. Despite India’s initial attacking intent and quick passing, the Spanish defense and goalkeeper Luis Calzado held firm, denying clear goal-scoring chances and frustrating the Indian forwards.
Spain continued to test the Indian defense throughout the first half, winning several penalty corners. India goalkeeper Suraj Karkera made some key saves to keep the deficit at one goal and ensure the game remained competitive at half-time.
India’s best chance in the opening quarter came from Abhishek, whose attempt to equalize was thwarted by a crucial save from Calzada. The close contest remained even as both teams looked for an advantage heading into the second half.
Spain doubled their lead in the third quarter when Ignacio Cobos found space between the circles to score in the 36th minute. Spain pushed aggressively in this period and won five penalty corners. However, India’s defense was strong and limited further damage.
India won their first penalty corner in the final quarter but failed to convert. Later in the match, Honnenahalli goalkeeper Shashikumar Mohith produced an impressive one-on-one save to prevent Spain’s third goal.
In a bid to reduce the deficit, India withdrew their goalkeeper for the last four minutes to add another player to the field. The tactical move did not yield the desired result as Spain maintained their defensive structure and prevented India from scoring.
India are currently eighth in the points table, just above Pakistan, who are at the bottom after losing eight out of eight matches. India will take on Australia in the second match of the Hobart rematch on Sunday, February 22.
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Published on:
February 21, 2026
