In hockey, winning comes down to scoring more goals than the opponent. Forwards are quick and skillful, constantly seeking opportunities to score. Defenders, however, are crucial in stopping attacks, requiring precision and strong game awareness to avoid costly fouls.

Here’s the list of the top five Top 5 Defenders in International Men’s Hockey

5. Jip Janssen – Netherlands

Dutch defender Jip Janssen, a skilled player at Kampong, has proven to be a strong asset to his national team. The 24-year-old has earned 57 caps for the Netherlands since his debut in 2017, becoming a regular squad member from 2019 onward.

Not only is Janssen solid in defense, but he’s also a capable goal-scorer. In the 2019 FIH Pro League’s first season, he netted three goals, helping his team secure a bronze medal. He also earned bronze at the EuroHockey Championship in Antwerp that year and improved his record by winning gold in Amstelveen in 2021.

During the Amstelveen tournament, the Netherlands boasted the best defensive record, conceding only two goals in the group stages the lowest of any team.

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4. Jeremy Hayward – Australia

Jeremy Hayward is a key player for the Australian hockey team, known for his experience and defensive skills. The Darwin native, now 29, has earned over 160 caps for his country. His talent shone brightly at the 2014 Men’s Hockey World Cup, where he was named Young Player of the Tournament at just 21.

Hayward was also a crucial part of the Kookaburras’ squad at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where Australia reached the final for the first time since 2004. Although they lost to Belgium in a penalty shootout, Hayward’s outstanding performance contributed to Australia’s strong defensive record in the tournament.

3. Matias Rey – Argentina

Matias Rey, a 37-year-old from Buenos Aires, Argentina, is one of the best defenders in men’s hockey today. Beginning his senior career in 2006, Rey has played over 230 games for the Los Leones and continues to perform at a high level.

A standout player for San Fernando, Rey has won three gold medals at the Pan American Cup, a gold medal at the 2016 Olympics, a bronze at the Champions Trophy, and a silver at the Hockey World League, among other honors. Notably, he was named Player of the Tournament at the 2022 Men’s Pan American Cup.

Currently, Rey is competing in the ongoing FIH Pro League, where his strong defense has helped Argentina maintain the lowest number of goals conceded in the tournament, with just four goals against them.

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2. Harmanpreet Singh – India

Harmanpreet Singh of India is recognized as one of the top defenders in men’s hockey. While his powerful drag-flicking is well-known, his defensive skills are equally impressive. Named the FIH Player of the Year for 2020-2021, Harmanpreet is a vigilant and reliable defender.

He effectively disrupts opposing attacks and is quick to mark players in the D-box. His strong partnership with goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has been crucial in saving penalty corners and field goals. Harmanpreet consistently clears the ball from danger and provides solid support to the midfield.

Currently, Singh is one of India’s key players. The defender from Amritsar is also leading the scoring charts at the ongoing FIH Pro League with 10 goals.

1. Alexander Hendrickx – Belgium

Alexander Hendrickx is currently the top defender in the world. His penalty-corner skills are so exceptional that, even with occasional defensive errors, he remains a crucial player for his team. His defending is also highly reliable.

At 28, Hendrickx has earned over 140 caps for Belgium and scored nearly 50 goals. As a Y1 Hockey ambassador, he has won three gold medals in the EuroHockey Championship, World Cup, and Olympic Games. His 14 goals at the Tokyo Olympics were key to Belgium’s success.

Hendrickx is enjoying a remarkable phase in his career, and it’s exciting to see what lies ahead. Belgium will undoubtedly rely on him to maintain their winning streak.

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Top 5 Best Defenders in International Men’s Hockey