After the disappointments of Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2021, there is now euphoria for Paris 2024. The Red Panthers have secured qualification for next summer’s Games in Valencia, their second participation after London 2012. The Belgian women’s hockey team beat Great Britain in the semi-finals – finals of the qualifying tournament 3-2 after a nerve-wracking match.
With Great Britain, the Red Panthers found themselves with a big name from the world of hockey in the semi-finals of the Olympic qualifying tournament. The winner qualified for Paris 2024.
An astute Nelen took advantage of a lapse in judgment from the British defense to open the scoring. Just before the end of the first quarter she scored to make it 1-0.
The English have lost experience in recent years, but physically they offered good resistance. They soon equalized, this time after an error of judgment by the Belgians. Howard made it 1-1 in D’hooghe’s goal.
After a difficult second quarter, the Panthers regained control of the game after halftime. With a bit of luck they regained the lead.
Gerniers deflects Vanden Borre’s corner: 2-1. The fact that he hit the ball with his arm did not bother the video referee. The British had arrived too late with their protest.
(read more below the video)
When Rasir freed Belgium with 5 minutes left to make it 3-1, the cava could have been taken out of the fridge, but not yet uncorked.
Great Britain launched a final offensive and made it 3-2 after a corner.
After 3 minutes of thrills, the Belgian women’s hockey team was able to celebrate their qualification. For the first time since 2012 they return to the Olympic Games.
The final against Spain on Saturday will be a prestigious match. Britain still has to work hard against its Irish neighbours. They are fighting for the last ticket to Paris 2024.
2024-01-18 16:20:14
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