A dominant India struck two quick first-half goals to beat lower-ranked Mongolia 2-0 and begin their Intercontinental Cup campaign on a winning note here on Friday.
Sahal Abdul Samad and Lallianzuala Chhangte scored in the second and 14th minute respectively as the 101st-ranked Indians emerged victorious over their opponents, placed 183rd in the world, at the Kalinga Stadium.
Last week’s train accident near Balasore weighed heavily on the tournament. The glamour and glitz, in abundance when Odisha hosted the Men’s Hockey World Cup in January this year, were missing. A minute’s silence was observed before both matches. Lebanon defeated Vanuatu 3-1 in the first game.
During the Hockey World Cup, the city was decorated with billboards, wall paintings and colourful street lighting. But this time, not a single billboard could be seen near the Kalinga Stadium.
There was hardly any buzz at the venue also. Empty seats — the humidity also didnot help the cause — greeted the Lebanon and Vanuatu players but before the second match some spectators, including school children, turned up to cheer for Sunil Chhetri & Co.
Chief minister Naveen Patnaik was present during India’s opener.
India, the 2018 champions, dominated the match for the most part.
