Daijiworld Media Network – Amstelveen

Amstelveen, Aug 20: India produced a commanding performance against arch-rivals Pakistan, securing a 5-3 victory in their final Pool D match of the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026 in Amstelveen on Wednesday.

The win helped India finish second in Pool D and book their place in the second round of the tournament. The Indian side responded strongly after its previous defeat to England, controlling large periods of the contest and keeping Pakistan under pressure.

Captain Harmanpreet Singh and Abhishek were the key contributors for India, scoring two goals each, while Hardik Singh added the fifth goal. Pakistan scored three goals but could not complete a comeback against a determined Indian side.

India started aggressively and established an early advantage. Harmanpreet converted penalty corners, while Abhishek found the net from open play as India built a comfortable lead.

Pakistan responded with goals from Shahid Hannan and Sufyan Khan, but Abhishek struck again to ensure India retained a two-goal advantage at half-time. India continued to control the match after the break, with Hardik Singh extending the lead to 5-2.

Pakistan mounted another late challenge when Hannan scored his second goal, reducing the deficit to 5-3. India, however, held firm in the closing stages to secure the victory and progress to the next stage of the World Cup.