India Triumphs Over Pakistan in Thrilling FIH Pro League Match

The Indian Men's Hockey Team achieved a thrilling 4-3 victory over Pakistan in their FIH Pro League match in London. After a slow start, India rallied to secure their third win of the season, with key goals from Abhishek, Nilakanta Sharma, Sukhjeet Singh, and Rajinder Singh. Despite a late surge from Pakistan, India held on to their lead, showcasing resilience and skill. This match not only highlights the fierce rivalry between the two teams but also marks a significant moment in India's campaign in the Pro League. Read on for a detailed account of this exciting encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 23:51 IST

India Secures Victory in London Against Pakistan

The Indian Men's Hockey Team kicked off their European tour in London with an exhilarating 4-3 win against their long-standing rivals, Pakistan, at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre on Tuesday.

After a sluggish start in the first quarter, India regained their momentum, achieving their third win of the Pro League season, despite a late challenge from Pakistan. This victory elevated India to seventh place in the league standings.

Key contributions came from Abhishek (22'), Nilakanta Sharma (24'), Sukhjeet Singh (40'), and Rajinder Singh (52'), who all played pivotal roles in this intense match, as reported in a press release.

The match commenced with both teams cautiously exchanging early circle entries. Pakistan struck first in the 8th minute when Ahmad Nadeem capitalized on a penalty corner, putting them ahead 1-0. India quickly responded with aggressive plays but struggled to convert their chances into goals.

In the last minute of the first quarter, India earned three consecutive penalty corners, but Pakistan's goalkeeper, Ali Raza, made a crucial save against a dragflick from skipper Harmanpreet Singh, which was India's closest attempt to score during that sequence.

India intensified their efforts in the second quarter, leading to an equalizer. In the 22nd minute, Dilpreet Singh's powerful shot was deflected by Raza, but Abhishek was quick to capitalize on the rebound, leveling the score at 1-1.

Just three minutes later, India was awarded another penalty corner, where Nilakanta reacted swiftly to the rebound, driving the ball through the goalkeeper's legs to give India a 2-1 lead.

Raza continued to shine for Pakistan, making significant saves against attempts from Jugraj Singh in the 28th minute and Harmanpreet a minute later, keeping the score at 2-1 by halftime.

Pakistan ramped up their efforts in the third quarter, creating several circle entries, but India's defense remained resolute. Defender Amit Rohidas displayed remarkable composure, thwarting a dangerous two-on-one counter-attack led by Nadeem.

India extended their lead in the 40th minute when Abhishek assisted Sukhjeet inside the circle, who finished beautifully to make it 3-1.

The final quarter was filled with tension as Pakistan sought to close the gap. After India blocked consecutive penalty corners in the 51st minute, they launched a quick counter-attack, earning a penalty corner in the 52nd minute. In a clever play, Harmanpreet acted as a decoy, allowing Rajinder to score past substitute goalkeeper Waqar, extending the lead to 4-1.

Pakistan responded immediately, with captain Abu Mahmood (53') scoring from a penalty corner flick through the legs of Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera, narrowing the score to 4-2. Jugraj missed a chance from India's 11th penalty corner in the 56th minute, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish.

With just 14 seconds remaining, Pakistan's Moin Shakeel (60') scored on a rebound during a penalty corner routine, bringing the score to 4-3. However, India maintained their composure in the final moments to secure a hard-fought victory.