Belgium’s victory over India could help them avoid World champions — The Netherlands — in the quarterfinals, but Ahrens is confident that the Indian eves would get a chance to redeem themselves this tournament.
Three teams from each of the World League Semifinals are assured an entry to the Olympics, but some teams outside the semifinals could also qualify for the Olympics. The crucial factor in the World League is to secure an easy quarterfinal, and India have not helped their cause by losing the first tie to Belgium
But Ahrens said there was a lot still left for India in this tournament, implying that his wards could still aspire for a fifth-place finish if they show some sparkle.
At world no. 13, India could still fancy their chances of making it to the 12-nation Olympic lineup, where five spots are reserved for winners of continental competitions.
Six other slots are confirmed for the top three teams from the two World League Semifinals. Some duplication of continental winners with the qualifiers from the World League Semifinals would open up more spots that could even go down to teams that do not make the last four of the Antwerp event.
PTI