Indian men’s hockey team (Img: Hockey India)
Brussels: The Indian men’s hockey team suffered a major setback in the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026 after losing 4-2 against England in their second group-stage match. The defeat has made their final group game against arch-rivals Pakistan a virtual knockout battle.
India currently sit second in their group with three points from two matches, while England have strengthened their position at the top. With Pakistan and Wales still in contention, India’s qualification scenario has become complicated.
For Harmanpreet Singh-led Team India, the simplest route is a victory against Pakistan. If India defeat their neighbours, they will qualify for the next round regardless of the result between England and Wales.
However, a loss against Pakistan would end India’s campaign, as Pakistan would move ahead on points.
A draw against Pakistan will not end India’s Hockey World Cup campaign immediately, but their qualification will then depend on the outcome of the England vs Wales match. India will move into the next round if England defeat Wales or if the match ends in a draw. However, if Wales manage to beat England, India’s fate will come down to goal difference calculations. A narrow Wales victory could still keep India’s hopes alive, but a bigger-margin win may put India’s qualification chances in danger.
India were unable to end their long wait for a victory over England in the World Cup after suffering a 4-2 defeat. The loss has increased pressure on the team, which is aiming to end a 51-year wait for a World Cup medal.
The upcoming India-Pakistan clash in the Netherlands promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament, with both teams fighting for survival.
