Sports News
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Hockey World Cup: Belgium take on England, Australia lock horns with Netherlands in semis | | | Bhubaneswar 14 December(agencies) Olympic silver medallist Belgium would be looking to create history by making their maiden World Cup final appearance when they take on England in the first semi-final of Men's Hockey World Cup at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar tomorrow. The match will begin at 4 p.m. Meanwhile, a rare history awaits two-time defending champions Australia as they chase a record hat-trick of titles, taking on the Netherlands in the second semi-final at 6.30 p.m.
The World No. one Australia is second only to four-time champions Pakistan, having won the world title thrice before, which includes back-to-back gold medals in the last two editions of the tournament in 2010 and 2014.
The Dutch, who have won the title thrice before the last time being in 1998, too would be desperate to break their 20-year-old jinx. Netherlands would be high on confidence especially after their hard-fought 2-1 win over home favourites India in the quarterfinal yesterday. Since 2013, Australia and Netherlands have played each other 11 times with the Kookaburras winning five and losing four while two ended in draws. | | | |
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