Ireland have lost 2-0 to Belgium in their opening game of Pool A.
The defending champions scored a goal in each half from Tom Boon and Alexander Hendrickx.
Ireland started well and were comfortable in possession but struggled to create many dangerous circle penetrations.
Irish goalkeeper Davy Harte was in world class form with a number of big saves that kept his side in the game.
“I think we started well and I think we were comfortable and settled into the game, but at the end of the day, I don’t think we made enough chances,” said Irish captain Sean Murray.
”I think we need to be a little bit more direct in the next game to look at where we can try and find little areas around the circle, around the final third, and create a few more chances.
“We defended well, Davy had a fantastic game but we needed to created more chances.”
Many of the Irish players, including Murray, were making their Olympic debuts.
”It’s been a long, long journey and it’s always going to be a very special day with your friends and family over, maybe a few nerves, of course, it’s only natural, but also just ready to compete and show what we can do on the world stage and the pinnacle of hockey.”
Ireland’s next game is against Australia on Monday,
“We’ve done our homework on each team and with Australia again, it’s about going out and fixing little things. I think we have to be a little bit more direct and hopefully get a few goals.”