New Delhi, Oct 23 (Reporter) The Indian men's hockey team faced a frustrating 2-0 defeat against world champions Germany in the first match of a two-match bilateral series at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium on Wednesday, with captain Harmanpreet Singh’s missed penalty stroke proving crucial. Germany, ranked second in the world, opened the scoring early in the fourth minute when Henrik Mertgens capitalised on a gap in India's defence. The home side fought back and earned a penalty stroke in the 27th minute, but Harmanpreet's attempt was saved by Germany’s goalkeeper, Joshua Onyekwue Nnaji, keeping India scoreless. As the match progressed, Germany doubled their lead just before halftime. Lukas Windfeder netted a goal in the 30th minute after a penalty corner was awarded due to a foot foul by Indian player Sanjay. The shot deflected off an Indian defender and rolled into the goal, leaving India trailing 2-0 at the break. In the second quarter, India increased their intensity and earned several penalty corners. Dilpreet Singh appeared to have equalised in the 27th minute, but a video referral overturned the goal, leading to the pivotal penalty stroke that Harmanpreet ultimately failed to convert. Despite generating opportunities in the second half, India struggled to penetrate the resolute German defence. In a desperate final push, the team pulled their goalkeeper in the last five minutes, but their efforts went unrewarded as they were unable to score. This match marked the fourth meeting between the two teams this year, with Germany previously defeating India 3-2 in the semifinals of the Paris 2024 Olympics. However, India had claimed victory in their earlier FIH Pro League encounters, winning 3-0 and 3-2. The two teams will face off again in the second match of the series at the same venue on Thursday, as India looks to recover from this disappointing setback...////...