India gave away a goal in the eighth minute before bouncing back strongly after halftime to lead 2-1. But Belgium struck four minutes from the hooter to snatch a 2-2 draw in an evenly-contested match.
Harendra said he was not surprised by Belgium’s “full press” tactics early on.
He said Belgium were left with little gas in the third and fourth quarters.
“We did double tackling. Whether we are behind the ball or chasing it, we maintain pace.”
Harendra said fitness played a big part in India’s performance.
The coach said India’s ‘USP’ was playing attacking hockey and they can’t compromise on that.
“We have decided what suits Indian hockey, that is more important. India can’t play with defensive approach,” he said.
Harendra said Belgium scored the equaliser because of his side’s defensive lapse.
India are currently placed at the top of Pool C because of a better goal difference than Belgium but Harendra feels the pool is still wide open.
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