NEW DELHI: Soorma Hockey Club are preparing for their second match of the competition as they face the UP Rudras at Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium on 2nd January 2025.
The team enters the game following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Tamil Nadu Dragons, securing a bonus point in a shootout. Meanwhile, the UP Rudras will look to build on their impressive 3-1 victory over Kalinga Lancers in their opening game.
In their first match, Soorma dominated the key stats such as possession and circle entries but was held to a draw.
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Head Coach Jeroen Baart reflected on the performance, saying, โThe first half was a bit of a chess game, while the third quarter saw both teams pick up momentum. After the first goal, we created more chances, but when youโre 1-0 down with just seven minutes to go, you have to be satisfied with a draw and a bonus point.โ
Baart highlighted the highly competitive nature of the tournament, noting, โEach match will be a tight contest and an interesting tactical puzzle.โ
Belgian midfielder Victor Wegnez, an influential figure in Soormaโs midfield, stressed the importance of solid defense and taking full advantage of penalty corner opportunities in their upcoming clash.
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โWe need to focus on defending first and creating as many penalty corners as possible. We have a strong team for penalty corners with players like Harmanpreet, Jeremy Hayward, and Nicolas Della Torre,โ said the 29-year-old.
The eagerly awaited match will take place at 8:15 PM IST, with live broadcasts available on Doordarshanโs DD Sports and Sony Sports Network.
The match will also be streamed for digital audiences on Sony LIV and Waves, Prasar Bharatiโs new OTT platform, Soorma Hockey Club will be looking to secure their first full points in this thrilling competition.
