We can win if we enjoy the game

However, the body language of the Belgians was even more negative than the Indian side. They just wanted to avoid attacking and worried about their defence, realising the counter-attack power of the Indian forwards. They came with the intention of drawing, and that’s what they did — and what Malaysia would love to do tomorrow too.

I don’t have a problem with the 1:6 PC conversion ratio but what did upset me was the lack of a coordinated effort or understanding. The absence of Jugraj was strongly felt and that’s a shame, because the team had months to prepare for such a situation, develop alternative skills.

The Belgian equaliser was a one-touch example of the wide gap in our defence and the lack of any understanding between our own striking circle.

It’s time to wake up because this tournament is not just about qualifying for the Olympics but also to improve on the FIH ranking, and to inject some consistency into Indian hockey. Let’s not forget that one more such surprise draw or loss will bring us very close to playing the rest of this tournament under tremendous pressure — and we all know how India performs in such situations.

It’s now time to get over the first match and focus on the second. Malaysia, coached by Paul Lissek (the Beckenbauer of German hockey) are somewhat of a bogey team for India, capable of upsetting us. They play in a style similar to the German team but with constraints of their physique, reflexes and power to execute.

Baljeet Dhillon will have to play a very important role as playmaker or attacking centre-half, not only to feed the youngsters but also to make the surprise solo runs he is capable of. The coach should form a system to fit in Baljeet as the playmaker for future matches also — it will definitely help him gain confidence and overcome the odds before the final stage.