New Delhi, Feb. 22 -- The Indian men's hockey team suffered a 0-2 defeat against Spain in a closely contested encounter with the Spanish side capitalising on their chances while India were unable to convert promising opportunities despite sustained attacking intent. Goals from Ignacio Abajo (6th minute) and Ignacio Cobos (36th), one in each half, proved decisive as Spain combined clinical finishing with disciplined defending to secure the win. India began with sharp, quick passing, looking to control possession early, but Spain's counter-attacking approach proved effective. Abajo capitalised on one such move, neatly deflecting the ball into the net to hand Spain an early lead. Unfazed by the setback, India stayed committed to their structure, circulating the ball swiftly through midfield and probing Spain's defence with intent. The Indian team created multiple promising openings and nearly found the equaliser towards the end of the quarter when Abhishek fired a powerful strike, only to be denied by an excellent save from Spanish goalkeeper Luis Calzado. The second quarter produced end-to-end action with both teams showing attacking intent and creating chances but failing to convert. Despite both teams pushing for a goal neither could find the net and Spain carried the 1-0 advantage into half-time. Soon after the restart, Suraj Karkera produced a brilliant save as Spain came out aggressively. Their pressure eventually paid off when Cobos struck from close range after finding himself unmarked inside the circle to double Spain's lead. Buoyed by the goal, Spain continued to press high and earned five penalty corners towards the latter stages of the third quarter, but India's defence held firm. India will next take on hosts Australia in their second game of the Hobart leg on Sunday....