Frenchmen storm into semis

New Delhi: They jumped, shouted, hugged each other in disbelief… the magnitude of what had been achieved took time to sink in. Qualifying for the semifinals of the Junior Hockey World Cup wasn’t a real goal for France ahead of the tournament, and on Thursday afternoon, when they edged title favourites Belgium 5-4 in a thrilling quarterfinal, the smiles and back-slapping just wouldn’t stop. Earlier, Holland beat New Zealand 3-2 in their quarterfinal. Malaysia too joined the party reaching the semifinals after 30 years, edging Korea 2-1.

Qualifying for the semifinals of the Junior Hockey World Cup wasn't a realistic goal for France ahead of the tournament, and on Thursday afternoon, when they edged title favourites Belgium 5-4 in a thrilling quarter-final, the smiles and back-slapping just didn't stop.

Just like France, Belgium too were stunned by what took place on the field.

The Under-21 European champions were ahead twice in the game, had 59 per cent ball possession compared to 41 of their opponents, penetrated the French circle a good 22 number of times ­ twice than their rivals -but still ended up playing for the 5th-8th place classifications.

Earlier, Holland beat New Zealand 3-2 in their quarter-final clash. Cruising into the last-8 with three wins under their belt.

Malaysia joined the party reaching the semi-finals after a gap of 30 years, edging Korea 2-1 in a close game.

Hockey giants Australia and Germany produced just what was expected of them -flair, consistency and an intriguing battle of tactics and skills ­ as they fought hard for a semis berth.

Germany won 4-3, after surviving an intense last 10 minutes.

India, Pak in 9-10 playoffs Three years ago, the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here was packed with close to 35,000 people. There were many more wait SEMIFINALS LINE-UP Holland vs Germany (8 pm) France vs Malaysia (3:30 pm) ing outside, hoping to get a ticket. India were playing Pakistan in the opening game of the 2010 World Cup, and a 41 win set the tone for the rest of the tournament.

The Junior Hockey World Cup here is a stark contrast. The passes are available, tickets prizes are nominal, but there are no takers.

On Thursday evening, one could count the number of spectators as India beat Argentina 4-2 and will now play Pakistan ­ who beat South Africa 4-0 -in the 9th place playoff.

For the record, Ramandeep Singh scored a brace, Gurjinder Singh and Amit Rohidas had a strike each, while Lucas Martinez and Lautaro Diaz reduced the margin for Argentina.