Hockey World Cup qualification scenarios: What India need vs Pakistan
India's national hockey team faces a critical match against Pakistan following a 2-4 loss to England in the Hockey World Cup. India must win or draw to secure a spot in the second round of the tournament.
Why it matters
The India-Pakistan rivalry is a major sporting event that carries significant cultural weight beyond the immediate tournament implications.
India’s Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign suffered a big setback after they lost 2-4 to England in their second Pool D match on Monday. India were ahead 2-1 at half-time after goals from captain Harmanpreet Singh and Dilpreet Singh. But England came back strongly in the second half, scoring three goals to win the match.India now have three points from two matches and will face Pakistan in their final Pool D game on Wednesday.India's Hockey World Cup 2026 qualification scenariosIndia have to beat or draw against Pakistan to keep their hopes of reaching the second round alive. England are currently top of Pool D with six points. India are second with three points, while Pakistan and Wales have one point each after two matches.The top two teams from each pool will move into the second round. The bottom two teams will play in the 9th-16th classification matches.
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