Netherlands

Defending Dutch players made a dream start to their bid to win the prestigious field hockey Champions Trophy for the third successive time by beating the Kiwis 5-2 in the first match of the tournament at Pakistan's National Stadium on Saturday.

The two teams were tied 2-1 in the first half between Dutch scoring twice.

Pakistan, India, Spain and Germany are the other four teams competing in the 26th edition of trophy.

Olympic gold medallists Aus withdrew out from the tournament early this month citing security reasons after a government travel advisory allowing India to enter.

The Dutch gradually found the momentum and scored the first goal of the tournament when Taeke Taekema converted the plenty corner in the 25th minute of the first half. The Kiwis struck within two minutes with a nicely crafted field goal by Hari Bevan to equalize the game.

Both teams made several attempts at goals, but failed to score before Dutch netted their second goal just five minutes before the end of first half. - Sapa-dpa

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