Indian Hockey team receives grand welcome at Delhi airport following Paris Olympics bronze medal

The Indian men's hockey team received a grand welcome at Delhi airport as they returned home with the bronze medal from the Paris Olympics 2024. 

The team, having secured the prestigious medal after a thrilling tournament, was greeted by a sea of supporters, including fans, media personnel, and dignitaries.

                    

On Thursday, India clinched the bronze medal in hockey at the Paris Olympics, defeating Spain 2-1 at the Yves du Manoir Stadium. Harmanpreet Singh scored both goals for India, converting two penalty corners in the 30th and 33rd minutes, while PR Sreejesh S key saves, including a crucial stop in the final seconds, ensured the victory. 

Despite an early 0-1 deficit after Spain's Marc Miralles scored, India fought back with resilience.

Sreejesh, playing his final international match, was celebrated as the 'God of Indian Modern Hockey' and the team’s emotional victory marked their first back-to-back Olympic bronze medals since 1972. 

Under coach Craig Fulton, India extended their strong Olympic head-to-head record against Spain, who have been defeated seven times in ten meetings. The Indian team’s defense held firm despite Spain’s late attempts to equalize, securing the bronze in a dramatic finish.