“I could not sleep for the whole night” - Midfielder Vivek Prasad on the Indian hockey team’s semi-final loss against Germany at Paris Olympics 2024

Indian men’s hockey team midfielder Vivek Prasad couldn’t sleep for the whole night after India registered a 3-2 win against Germany in the semi-final of the Paris Olympics.

Team India came very close to qualifying for its first Olympic final after 44 years. In the last minute, India made two attempts at the goal but couldn't equalize the game.

“I could not sleep for the whole night. That game replayed in my mind like a reel often for the entire night. We were heartbroken and kept pondering what better we could have done. We overcame it and won bronze which was in our hand,” Vivek told PTI.

However, the whole team overcame the disappointment by putting up an impressive performance against Spain in the bronze medal match, coming out on top by 2-1.

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“We dedicated the medal to Sreejesh Bhai”: Vivek Prasad

Vivek Prasad was also part of the Tokyo Olympic bronze medal-winning side. Notably, the Indian hockey team bagged consecutive medals after 52 years. The last time they won successive medals was in 1968 (bronze) and 1972 (bronze).

Vivek stated that the Indian team dedicated the bronze medal victory to veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who retired from hockey after the conclusion of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“Winning the bronze medal was a moment of overwhelming joy for us. We enjoyed it immensely. We dedicated the medal to (PR) Sreejesh bhai, as it was his last tournament,” Vivek added.

Vivek, who is also the deputy superintendent of MP police, was given a warm reception by his fans and colleagues upon his arrival at Delhi Airport on Sunday. MP Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Vishvas Sarang welcomed him by garlanding and hugging him at the airport.

Furthermore, Vivek Prasad will also be a part of a Tiranga Yatra, which will be led by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Monday. Notably, Yadav sent a video to Vivek, congratulating him and the whole team after they clinched the bronze medal.

Moreover, the MP government has announced a cash reward of INR 1 crore for Prasad for winning the bronze medal.