Bhubaneswar, Dec 5: Title hopes already shattered, defending champions India even failed to finish on the podium as they lost 1-3 to France in the bronze-medal play-off match of the FIH Junior Hockey World Cup here on Sunday.
France skipper Timothee Clement slammed a hat-trick to stun the hosts once again and secure the bronze medal. Clement converted three penalty corners for France in the 26th, 34th and 47th minutes while India’s lone goal was struck by Sudeep Chirmako in the 42nd minute.
It was another bad show from the Indians after their superlative performance against Belgium in the quarterfinals.
The third-fourth place match was a chance for India to avenge their 4-5 defeat against France in their tournament opener, but the European side dominated the hosts. France were the better side on the pitch as they controlled proceedings after a sedate first quarter and earned 14 penalty corners as against India’s three. (PTI)
