To say that India have their work cut out against Pakistan at the Hockey World Cup 2026 would be an understatement. India may sit in the second spot in Group D, but their hopes of making it to phase two of the tournament will entirely rest on the result against their arch-rivals Pakistan on Wednesday, August 19.
HOCKEY WORLD CUP 2026: FULL COVERAGE
India won their first match of the campaign against Wales 3-1, albeit with some issues, especially at the back. But the cracks got left wide open when they took on England on Monday. After being pegged back early, India ensured that they took the lead heading into half-time with captain Harmanpreet Singh scoring from a penalty corner, before Dilpreet Singh got the first field goal of the tournament for his side.
England fought back after the break and took the lead before the end of the third quarter before Nick Bandurak got his second goal and ensured that they qualified for the next round.
Now, the pressure is all on Harmanpreet and Co. and if they can ensure that there are no more hiccups on the way and they can get to the next round. But what if Pakistan can edge out a draw or produce an upset and get the win?
Here’s a look at India’s qualification scenario heading into their final group game.
INDIA’S HOCKEY WORLD CUP 2026 SCENARIOS EXPLAINED
In order for India to qualify for the next round, they will need to beat Pakistan or at least get a draw. India currently have three points from their first two games. England are top of the table, having won both of their opening matches.
Pakistan and Wales are at the bottom half with just a point each from their first two games.
WHAT IF INDIA BEATS PAKISTAN
This is the best case for the Indian team. The win takes you to six points, and you don’t have to worry about what happens in the England vs Wales game.
WHAT IF INDIA DRAWS AGAINST WALES
A draw against Pakistan will mean that India will reach four points from three games. In that case, India will need Wales to either draw or lose to England.
If England beats Wales, then India will finish second in the group and qualify for the second round.
However, if Wales does manage to pull off an upset against England and win, then both teams will sit on four points each. Then the second place will be decided on goal difference.
WHAT IF INDIA LOSES TO PAKISTAN
A loss means it is curtains for India and their hopes of making it to the next round. Pakistan will move ahead of them with the win and sit on four points.
The result of the England vs Wales game will also become inconsequential. India will then have to compete for the 9 to 16th places.
– Ends
