Tokyo promises to be a stunning treat for hockey fans around the world. Olympic gold on the line, the narratives are seismic and whether it’s pride, passion or glory, every team is playing for something.
It’s going to be a heavyweight spectacle with a plethora of goals, a rollercoaster of emotion and, of course, some top-quality hockey, albeit behind closed doors. Here, SIMON CAPPER looks at some the best match ups from the opening weekend.
Australia – Japan (M)
Right out of the gate and it’s into the lion’s den tie for hosts Japan. Going up against the Kookaburras this will be a baptism of fire for Siegfried Aikman’s young side. Australia sit atop the FIH rankings and you know they are going to come out swinging and setting the tone early. We can expect Japan will need to weather some major storms if they are to come out of this one with a result, but with no 12th man it may prove a step too far.
Prediction: Australia 8-0 Japan
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