Australia were pushed by Belgium as they set after a fifth straight title, while India upset England on the opening day of the men’s Champions Trophy in Melbourne yesterday.
In other pool games, Pakistan’s dream start turned into a nightmare as they fell 3-1 to the Netherlands, while Olympic champions Germany beat New Zealand 3-2.
Australia were pushed for their 4-2 win in Pool B, holding off the determined eighth-ranked Belgium.
In Belgium’s first-ever Champions Trophy match, it looked as though it could be a rout early on as Australia dominated the first half scoring two unanswered goals.
Despite conceding another goal after half-time Belgium hit back with Sebastian Dockier scoring twice to give them hope.
However, a late Chris Ciriello goal sealed victory for Australia.
Eleventh-ranked India came from behind to down fourth-ranked England 3-1 in Pool A.
After a muddling start, India controlled the remainder of the game against an inexperienced English side.
Pakistan began brightly against the Dutch, scoring the opening goal of the Pool B match, but succumbed to three unanswered goals by the classy Netherlands.
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