London: India slumped to a 2-5 defeat against Germany in Group B and went out of the reckoning for a berth in the semifinals of the men’s hockey competition on Friday.
Facing a must-win situation following two straight defeats in their first two games, India put up a pathetic display and allowed the Germans to dictate terms almost right through the match.
The Indians were no match for their speedy rivals and their defence was split open at will by the Germans.
Young striker Florian Fuchs scored a brilliant hat-trick for the Germans, while Oliver Korn and Christopher Wesley were the other goal-getters for the Europeans.
For India, VR Raghunath and Tushar Kahndker got one goal each.
India are now out of the semi-final race after having tasted defeats in their first three matches. They lost to The Netherlands 2-3 and New Zealand 1-3 in their opening two fixtures.
The eight-time champions, who have returned to the Olympic fold after eight years, are lying sixth and last in Group B.
India will now face Korea on Sunday before finishing off their group campaign against Belgium on August 7. (PTI)
