India Qualifies for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, Happening in Belgium & the Netherlands

Advertisment


India defeated South Korea with a score of 4-1 at Rajgir Sports Complex in Bihar, on Sunday. This victory has earned the former a direct entry to the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, happening in Belgium and the Netherlands. The matches are expected to span from August 14 to August 30. 

India Qualifies for FIH Hockey World Cup 2026

After six days of relentless effort, the door to the FIH World Cup 2026 finally opened for India after the team defeated China 7-0. South Korea, on the other hand, won against Malaysia 4-3, making their way towards the final showdown. India tasted success at the Asia Cup for the first time in eight years after 2017. 

The Indian team seemed determined on the pitch from the start. The collaboration and understanding between the defence, midfield, and forward players was truly remarkable. Koreans, on the other hand, were playing in a defensive format. India secured five wins and one draw in the tournament.

Advertisment

This victory has honored India with its fourth Asia Cup title, second to South Korea, which currently holds five title records. India won the tournaments in 2003 in Kuala Lumpur, 2007 in Chennai, and 2017 in Dhaka.

Malaysia Secures Third Place

Malaysia defeated China 4-3 during the third-place play-off match. On the other hand, Japan secured a win against Bangladesh 6-1 to secure fifth position. India was consistent throughout the tournament and was leading in the Super 4s stage. 

It was leading by seven points ahead of South Korea. India ranked 9th in the world; however, they performed well when it mattered the most and secured their spot in the World Cup.

Advertisment

Vice-captain of the Indian Men’s Hockey team said, “The team played really well. Our execution was good, which had not happened for our first 3-4 matches. Our forwards had a meeting, and they executed well.”

He further added, “Only the media and experts focus much on Harmanpreet Singh, not ours, because we play as a team. If he cannot score, it is our duty to score. Even if he does not score, it is fine because we have good forwards.”

He ended by praising this win and motivating the team to keep the same spirit for the games ahead: “Our team discussed during the Super 4s that during the important matches, we need to be at our best execution-wise, be it as forwards or the whole team. The job is not finished yet for us.”