Amstelveen, August 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India’s men’s hockey team crashed out of the race for the semifinals of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 after suffering a 3-5 defeat to former Olympic champions Argentina in their Pool E Stage 2 match at the Wagener Hockey Stadium here on Monday.
India entered the contest needing a victory by at least four goals to keep their semifinal hopes alive, along with favourable results in the other Pool E fixture. Their position had already become difficult after a 3-1 defeat to hosts the Netherlands in their opening Stage 2 match.
The loss to Argentina ended India’s hopes, leaving them without a point after two matches in the second stage.
Argentina, the 2016 Olympic gold medallists, strengthened their position at the top of Pool E with six points after following up their earlier 3-1 victory over England with another win. They now share the top spot with the Netherlands, who also have six points.
The Netherlands’ match against England later on Monday will determine the final standings in Pool E and decide which two teams advance to the semifinals.
India needed a significantly more clinical performance in the attacking third against Argentina, particularly in terms of movement, finishing and converting opportunities. With their World Cup campaign at stake, the Indian side had little choice but to adopt an aggressive approach.
However, India were unable to make their chances count. Argentina produced a disciplined performance, played at a high level and restricted India’s opportunities, ultimately securing a two-goal victory.
India have now lost both their Stage 2 matches and remain without any points in the competition.
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