India Suffers 2-4 Defeat to England in Hockey World Cup 2026 Pool D Match

India’s Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign suffered a big setback after they lost 2-4 to England in their second Pool D match on Monday. India were ahead 2-1 at half-time after goals from captain Harmanpreet Singh and Dilpreet Singh. But England came back strongly in the second half, scoring three goals to win the match. India now have three points from two points from two matches and will face Pakistan in their final Pool D game on Wednesday.

India's Hockey World Cup 2026 qualification scenarios

India have to beat or draw against Pakistan to keep their hopes of reaching the second round alive. England are currently top of Pool D with six points. India are second with three points, while Pakistan and Wales have one point each after two matches. The top two teams from each pool will move into the second round. The bottom two teams will play in the 9th-16th classification matches. India had started their campaign with a 3-1 win over Wales.

What happens if India beat Pakistan?

A win will take India to six points and guarantee their place in the second round. India will qualify regardless of the result between England and Wales.

What if India draw with Pakistan?

A draw will take India to four points. In that case, India will need Wales to either draw with or lose to England. If England beat Wales or the two teams draw, India will finish second in the pool and qualify for the second round. However, if Wales beat England and India draw with Pakistan, India and Wales will both have four points. The second qualification spot will then be decided by goal difference.

What if India lose against Pakistan?

A defeat against Pakistan will end India’s campaign. India will remain on three points, while Pakistan will move ahead of them with a win. India will then be unable to finish in the top two, regardless of the result between England and Wales.

That makes the clash against Pakistan a crucial match for Harmanpreet Singh and his team.

How India lost to England

India made a strong comeback after England took an early lead. Bandurak scored for England before Harmanpreet Singh and Dilpreet Singh turned the game around to give India a 2-1 half-time lead. But England dominated the third quarter and scored twice through Rushmere and Croft. Bandurak then added another goal in the final quarter to seal the 4-2 victory. India’s defensive mistakes proved costly, while England made better use of their chances in the second half. With three points from two matches, India now face Pakistan with their place in the next round on the line.