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Great Britain’s chances of earning a spot in the Women’s Hockey Tournament at the Olympics suffer a setback following a defeat to Belgium
Great Britain’s chances of qualifying for the women’s hockey tournament at the Olympics took a hit with a 3-2 loss to Belgium. This loss means Belgium will participate in their first Games since London 2012. Despite a remarkable semi-final win over Team GB, securing a place at Paris 2024, the British team now faces a third-place play-off against Ireland on Saturday to secure their spot in France.
In the qualifying match, Belgium’s Barbara Nelen scored the opening goal in the first quarter, with Tessa Howard equalizing in the second. Stephanie Vanden Borre’s goal in the third quarter gave Belgium the lead again, though it was not without controversy. A British player believed the ball had deflected off Alix Gerniers’s shoulder, which could have led to the goal being disallowed. However, the deflection was not noticed in real time, and the British team was too slow to appeal for a review. As a result, the goal stood.
Belgium secured a 3-2 victory over Great Britain in women’s hockey, with Justine Rasir scoring Belgium’s third goal five minutes before the end. Despite a late goal from Ellie Rayer, it wasn’t enough for Britain to reverse the outcome. Hollie Pearne-Webb expressed disappointment and frustration with certain aspects of the game but acknowledged the overall performance and highlighted the need to address a few areas.
Spain’s win over Ireland on penalties secured their eighth appearance in the Olympic Games women’s hockey tournament, while Belgium is set to feature for the second time. Justine Rasir, named player of the match, expressed happiness and pride in her team’s performance, noting that after 12 years, it’s better late than never.
Although it would be surprising if Britain failed to qualify for Paris 2024, given their gold at Rio 2016 and bronze at London 2012 and Tokyo 2020, they now face a third-place play-off against Ireland. Meanwhile, the British men’s team remains in contention, advancing to the semi-finals with a 6-0 victory over China in their final group stage match. They are set to face New Zealand on Saturday.
