Hockey World Cup 2018: 3 reasons why India drew against Belgium

#1 Brave Belgium pounce on nervy last-gasp defending

Belgium snared the equaliser due to their aggressive approach in the last few minutes

With five minutes remaining in the match, Belgium decided to pull out goal-keeper Vincent Vanasch in favour of an extra outfield player.

Considering that they were trailing by just one goal, their move was quite remarkable and bold in many aspects.

While their overall style, as well as pace of hockey, has leaped upwards to rival the top teams, their inability to close out games continues to pose a conundrum for India.

As has been observed on quite a few occasions in the recent past, the Men in Blue found themselves under heightened pressure in the last few minutes.

Belgium capitalised on India's nervy defending by going all-in. The Red Lions brought more bodies forward in a bid to challenge the hosts' back-line.

In the 56th minute, they created chaos by stringing dangerous passes in the inner circle. Simon Gougnard pounced on open space to unleash the equalising goal.

While India take on Canada, Belgium lock horns with South Africa in the last round of matches in Pool C.

Possessing a plus-four goal-difference over the second-placed Red Lions, the Men in Blue will have a golden opportunity to book a direct berth in the quarterfinals.

Head to Sportskeeda to check out the Hockey World Cup schedule for the upcoming matches