India Triumphs Over Pakistan 5-3 in FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026

In an exhilarating encounter at the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026, India defeated Pakistan 5-3, eliminating their rivals from the tournament. Harmanpreet Singh and Abhishek each scored twice, while Hardik Singh added another goal. The match featured a flurry of goals, showcasing India's attacking strength and resilience. Despite a late push from Pakistan, India held firm to secure their place in the next round. This victory adds to India's historical success against Pakistan in previous World Cups.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 19, 2026, 21:42 IST

India Advances After Thrilling Victory

In a thrilling Pool D match at the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026, India secured a 5-3 victory against Pakistan on Wednesday, eliminating their rivals from the tournament. Key players Harmanpreet Singh and Abhishek each scored two goals, while Hardik Singh contributed one, showcasing India's offensive prowess.

India's Strong Start

India kicked off the match with a bang, taking the lead just five minutes in. Captain Harmanpreet Singh executed a powerful drag-flick from a penalty corner, sending the ball into the bottom-right corner of the net.

Six minutes later, Abhishek extended the lead with a remarkable solo run down the left flank, skillfully maneuvering past the Pakistani defense to score.

A Flurry of Goals

Harmanpreet struck again in the 21st minute, following up on a penalty corner attempt that rebounded to him, allowing him to fire a strong shot into the net, making it 3-0.

Pakistan quickly responded, with Hannan Shahid displaying his speed and skill to net a brilliant field goal in the 22nd minute, narrowing the gap.

The scoring frenzy continued in the 24th minute, as Abhishek netted his second goal, only for Sufyan Khan to convert Pakistan's first penalty corner, bringing the score to 4-2 at halftime.

India's Third Quarter Dominance

India started the third quarter with intensity, earning a penalty stroke after Sukhjeet Singh was fouled by Arshad Liaqat. Hardik Singh stepped up to convert the stroke in the 34th minute, restoring India's three-goal lead.

Pakistan's Late Rally Falls Short

While India maintained possession for much of the third quarter, Pakistan emerged with renewed urgency in the final period. Hannan Shahid scored his second goal in the 46th minute, breaking through the Indian defense and finishing past goalkeeper Suraj Karkera, making it 5-3.

Despite Pakistan's efforts to equalize in the closing moments, India held on to secure the win.

Historical Context and Pool D Standings

This match marked another chapter in the historic rivalry, with India having previously defeated Pakistan in the 1973, 1975, and 2010 World Cups. The two teams had not faced each other in the World Cup since then.

Earlier in the day, England triumphed over Wales with an 8-2 score, topping Pool D. England will advance with three points and a +2 goal difference, joining India and the Netherlands in the next round, along with either Argentina or New Zealand.