In what seemed a gritty battle with midfield duels and some solid defence play, India waited patiently before carving up the Pakistan defence in the fourth quarter with three goals to prevail 4-0 in their opening encounter of the Champions Trophy here on Saturday.

It was tense. And even though Indian goals came off some spectacular moves, it was the defensive display that built the foundation. Looking more relieved than happy, Indian coach Harendra Singh was glad to get over the line and start his senior coaching stint on a winning note. "I am happy that what we planned, we executed," he said. "I have always maintained that if you play a solid defence line, through balls and counter attacks get that more dangerous."