India Hockey World Cup 2026 hopes are under pressure after India suffered a 2-4 defeat to England in their second Pool D match. India led 2-1 at half-time through goals from Harmanpreet Singh and Dilpreet Singh but conceded three goals after the break. The result has made the India-Pakistan encounter on August 19 a crucial match in Pool D. India began its campaign with a 3-1 win over Wales, while Pakistan drew 3-3 with Wales in its second match, keeping its qualification hopes alive. India can secure a place in the next phase by beating Pakistan. A draw could make qualification dependent on the result of the England-Wales match and other tie-breaking factors, while a defeat would severely damage India’s chances of progressing.
India Hockey World Cup 2026: Pakistan Clash Decides Fate
