The Netherlands are among the top favorites to win gold in both men’s and women’s field hockey at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The event will take place from July 27 through August 9.
Men’s Field Hockey
Historical Context
Men’s field hockey has been part of the Olympic games since 1908. It was excluded in 1912 and 1924 but has been a staple since 1928.
India holds the record for the most gold medals with eight, though their last victory was in 1980. Germany is notable for winning two golds in 2008 and 2012. Belgium, the 2020 gold medalists, are the current defending champions.
Belgium Betting Breakdown
Belgium is in Group B alongside India, Australia, Argentina, New Zealand, and Ireland. They finished as runners-up in the 2023 World Cup, losing to Germany in a shootout after a 3-3 tie.
Key players include Tom Boon, who was among the top goal scorers in the 2023 World Cup, Florent Van Aubel, a defenseman with three goals in the tournament, and goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch, who was the second in the 2023 Goalkeeper of the Year voting and the “Goalkeeper of the Tournament” at the World Cup.
Other Medal Hopefuls
- Germany (+450): Germany won the 2023 World Cup and features Niklas Wellen, the “Player of the Tournament” and second in the 2023 FIH Player of the Year voting. They last won Olympic gold in 2012 and finished fourth in 2020.
- Netherlands (+325): Although they haven’t won gold since 2000, they finished third in the 2023 World Cup. Key player Jip Janssen was their leading scorer in that tournament with eight goals. They are in Group A with Germany, Great Britain, Spain, and South Africa.
Women’s Field Hockey
Netherlands Betting Breakdown
The Netherlands are heavy favorites to win gold in women’s field hockey at the 2024 Paris Olympics. They are the most successful team in the sport’s history, with nine World Cup victories and nine Olympic medals, including four golds. Since 2000, they have won gold in 2008, 2012, and 2020, with silver in 2004 and 2016, and bronze in 2000.
Key players include Xan de Waard, the 2023 “Player of the Year,” and Yibbi Jansen, a significant offensive threat.
The Netherlands have dominated women’s field hockey, particularly in the Olympics. The next most successful team, Australia, has three gold medals.
Best Bets: 2024 Olympic Field Hockey
The Netherlands are the best bet to win gold in both the men’s and women’s field hockey events during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
A parlay on this outcome, if available, is also a strong consideration.