A draw or an England win against the Netherlands would make India’s task much harder and could end their campaign, depending on the final goal differences
Published: August 23, 2026, 10:39 AM IST
Share Article
https://www.india.com/sports/how-can-india-still-qualify-for-fih-hockey-world-cup-2026-semi-finals-after-3-1-defeat-against-netherlands-explained-8507892/
India at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026(Credits: Hockey India/X)
India’s hopes of reaching the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 semi-finals took a major hit after they lost 1-3 to the Netherlands in their second-round Pool E match on SaturdayIndia started well but could not keep up the pressure after half-timeThe Netherlands scored three times in the second half, while Harmanpreet Singh’s goal was the only reply for India.
The defeat left India at the bottom of Pool E without a pointThe Netherlands moved to the top and have already secured their place in the semi-finalsEngland and Argentina were the other two teams in the group, with the top two moving into the last four.
India’s hopes, however, stayed alive after Argentina beat England 3-1 later on SaturdayThat result means India still have a chance to finish in the top two, but they now need results to go their way as well as a big win in their final match.
India’s last Pool E match is against Argentina on MondayThey must win that game by at least two goalsA two-goal win would give India six goals scored and put them ahead of Argentina on goals scored if the other results fall their wayA bigger win would improve India’s goal difference and make their position stronger.
India also need the Netherlands to beat England in their final matchA three-goal win for the Dutch would give India the clearest route into the semi-finalsIn simple terms, India need to beat Argentina by at least two goals and hope the Netherlands beat England by at least three goals.
A draw or an England win against the Netherlands would make India’s task much harder and could end their campaign, depending on the final goal differencesIndia therefore cannot afford to think only about their own gameThey need to score goals against Argentina and keep an eye on the Netherlands-England result.
The loss to the Netherlands has left India with little room for errorThey were competitive for long periods but conceded three goals after the break and could not make enough of their own chances.
