India will have to be wary of co-hosts Netherlands, who have scored the third most goals (12) in the tournament so farGet the full preview and live streaming details right here
Published: August 22, 2026, 1:23 PM IST
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Huddle photo of the Indian Hockey team at the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup(Credits: X)
Harmanpreet Singh and co will look to continue and build on their fine form in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 when they take on a dangerous Netherlands side in the second round Group E opener later today at the Wagener Stadium from 7:30PM (IST) onwardsIndia had secured an error-ridden 5-3 win against arch-rivals Pakistan in their first round Pool D finale on Wednesday.
That win had helped the 2024 Paris Olympics Bronze medallists secure a spot to the second round along with Pool toppers England, who thrashed neighbours Wales 8-2 on the final matchday of the opening round.
India are coming on the back of two wins and a loss, which they endured against the English unitThe wins came against relatively weaker sides Wales and Pakistan.
The Indians had kicked-off their World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory before losing to England 4-2 despite taking the lead early in the matchThe defensive lapses, which were on full display against Pakistan, were first exposed against the Europeans, who dominated the entire game after going behind.
The loss had made India’s meeting with Pakistan, a must-win game to reach the next stageThe Indians started strongly and took control of the match earlyHarmanpreet Singh and Abhishek scored twice each, while Hardik Singh also found the net.
India went into half-time with a 4-2 lead before Hardik’s goal gave them a three-goal cushion in the third quarterPakistan scored again in the final quarter, but India held on for the win.
The win took India to six points and helped them finish second in the pool behind EnglandThe result, however, did not hide India’s problems at the backPakistan were able to find gaps in the Indian defense and scored three goals with poor marking and lapses in possession giving them chances.
Captain Harmanpreet admitted that India need to cut out such mistakes, especially with tougher opponents waiting in the next roundThe Indian team could not have asked for a tougher opponent than co-hosts Netherlands, who are currently undefeated in the tournament.
The Dutch side won all of its Pool A fixtures against Argentina, New Zealand and Japan and scored the third most number of goals (12) on the wayOnly England (16) and Ireland (13) have more.
When and where to watch India vs Netherlands?
The India vs Netherlands, FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 second round Group E match will be broadcasted live on the JioHotstar app/website as well as the Star Sports network from 7:30PM (IST) onwards.
