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India faces arch-rivals Pakistan in a must-win FIH Hockey World Cup league match. India needs a draw, Pakistan needs a victory to advance.
Jugraj Singh in action against England (Picture credit: X @TheHockeyIndia)
Harmanpreet Singh’s India will take on arch-rivals Pakistan in their final league game at the FIH Hockey World Cup, in what has become a must-win encounter for them after a 2-4 loss to England and their second-round hopes hanging by a thread.
India, who have three points from two matches, need at least a draw to advance, while Pakistan, on one point, must bag a victory to keep their campaign alive. England, meanwhile, have already booked their place in the next round after winning both their games.
India opened their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Wales but suffered a 2-4 loss to world No. 3 England after conceding three goals in the second half.
Defensive lapses and an ineffective penalty-corner conversion rate will be the areas of concern for India coach Craig Fulton.
Pakistan, meanwhile, were held to a 3-3 draw by Wales after suffering a 1-4 loss to England and will need a much-improved display to get the better of their neighbours. Their penalty-corner execution and defensive solidity have been inconsistent till now.
India have held the upper hand in recent encounters, defeating Pakistan 7-1 and 4-3 during the European leg of the Pro League earlier this year. Pakistan’s last victory over India came in the 2016 Champions Trophy.
India will also hope to improve their penalty-corner conversion after scoring just once from four chances against England.
“Rankings or past performance don’t matter in a match between India and Pakistan. The team that plays well on match day will win and we know how important this match is for our hockey, so we will leave no stone unturned,” Pakistan captain Abu Bakar Mahmood has said.
When Will The India Vs Pakistan FIH Hockey World Cup Match Be Played?
The India vs Pakistan FIH Hockey World Cup match will be played on Wednesday, August 19.
Where Will The India Vs Pakistan FIH Hockey World Cup Match Be Played?
The India vs Pakistan FIH Hockey World Cup game will be played at the Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen.
What Time Will The India Vs Pakistan FIH Hockey World Cup Match Start?
The India vs Pakistan FIH Hockey World Cup match will start at 6:30 pm IST.
How To Watch The India Vs Pakistan FIH Hockey World Cup Match On TV?
The India vs Pakistan FIH Hockey World Cup match will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network.
How To Watch The India Vs Pakistan FIH Hockey World Cup Match On OTT?
The India vs Pakistan FIH Hockey World Cup match will be live-streamed on JioHotstar.
August 18, 2026, 1:29 pm IST
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