Spain upset defending champions Belgium, India beat Britain in shootout in hockey quarters

Spain caused an upset by defeating reigning champions Belgium 3-2 in the men's hockey quarter-finals at the Paris Olympics. Captain Marc Miralles scored a crucial third goal with three minutes remaining, securing the victory.

The Netherlands also emerged victorious by beating Australia 2-0, while India triumphed over Britain 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Germany managed to edge out Argentina 3-2.

In the upcoming semi-finals, Germany will face India, and the Netherlands will take on Spain. Spain had not advanced past the quarterfinals since Beijing 2008, while Belgium had reached the last two Olympic finals.

Several Belgian players held gold and silver medals from the Tokyo and Rio Games. Jose Maria Basterra, Jordi Bonastre, and Marc Reyne were instrumental in Spain's victory, with Basterra expressing his joy at the team's success.

India, aiming for their ninth Olympic hockey gold medal, overcame Britain despite playing with 10 men for most of the match due to a red card.

The decisive penalty converted by substitute Raj Kumar Pal secured the once-dominant team a place in the semi-finals for the second consecutive Olympic Games, following their bronze medal achievement in Tokyo.

During the match against Australia, several Dutch players were seen limping off the field as the game intensified, resulting in some physical confrontations among the players.

Nevertheless, the Netherlands emerged victorious, with Thijs van Dam extending their lead in the 41st minute by skillfully maneuvering past two defenders and executing a shot that curved past goalkeeper Pirmin Blake, marking the Netherlands' second goal of the match.