India take on Germany in semis today

High-flying defending champions India would bank on their solid defensive structure and drag-flicking prowess to outsmart sixtime title-winners Germany in the semifinal of the FIH Junior Men's Hockey World Cup at the Kalinga Stadium here on Friday.

After a disappointing start to the tournament when they were stunned 4-5 by France, India lifted their game by leaps and bounds to qualify for their second consecutive semifinal in the Junior World Cup.

India produced a defensive master-class on Wednesday to eke out a narrow 1-0 win over European giants Belgium with the likes of Yashdeep Siwach, vice-captain Sanjay Kumar and Shardanand Tiwai shinning bright in the backline.

India's two goalkeepers — Prasanth Chauhan and Pawan, in particular —, were terrific against Belgium and produced some breath-taking saves to deny their opponents.

India's strength lies in set pieces and it has been quite evident in the tournament so far.