Hockey World Cup qualification scenarios: What India need vs Pakistan

India's Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign encountered a significant setback after they were defeated 2-4 by England in their second Pool D match. India had taken the lead 2-1 at halftime through captain Harmanpreet Singh and Dilpreet Singh, but England responded strongly in the second half, scoring three goals to clinch the victory. With three points from two matches, India will now face Pakistan in their final Pool D game on Wednesday.

To advance to the second round of the tournament, India must secure a win against Pakistan or a draw. If they emerge victorious, they will guarantee their place in the next round, regardless of the outcome between England and Wales. In the event of a draw, India would secure four points, and their fate would depend on the results of the matches between Wales and England.

Specifically, if either team draws or loses to England, India would finish second in the pool and qualify for the second round. However, if Wales were to win against England and India draw with Pakistan, India and Wales would both have four points. In such a scenario, goal difference would determine the second qualification spot.

A loss against Pakistan would be a devastating blow for India, ending their campaign and leaving them with three points. Pakistan would then leapfrog India into the top two positions, barring any extraordinary results in the remaining matches between England and Wales. The outcome of the India-Pakistan match has become a crucial moment for Harmanpreet Singh and his team, representing a make-or-break opportunity to advance to the next round of the Hockey World Cup 2026.