Ultimate showcase of young Hockey talent – the FIH Odisha Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup – kicked off in Bhubaneswar Kalinga Stadium on November 24. The much-anticipated tournament which will see 16 top teams from across the globe vie for the title, was declared open by his Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal. In a shocking result, defending champions India were rendered clueless in their opening encounter as they went down 4-5 against a low-ranked France. Belgium, South Africa, Malaysia, Chile, Germany, Pakistan, Canada and Poland also started their campaign on the opening day of the tournament.
The opening ceremony was held on Wednesday at the iconic Kalinga Hockey Stadium, which has previously hosted the FIH Men's World Cup in 2018, and several other marquee events. Captains from the 16 participating teams took photo along with the coveted trophy.
Fireworks light up the night sky in Bhubaneswar during the inaugural ceremony of the World Cup.
Players vie for ball during FIH Men's Junior Hockey World Cup 2021 match between India and France at Kalinga Stadium, in Bhubaneswar.
Indian players celebrate after a goal against France in their opening encounter. Vice-captain Sanjay scored a hat-trick but it was not enough as underdogs France emerged victorious.
Canada and Poland players vie for ball in their first match of the tournament. It was a narrow but an important win for Poland as they fetch 3 crucial points by beating Canada 1-0.
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