India defeated Pakistan 5-3 in a thrilling Hockey World Cup match in Amstelveen on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. The win sent India into the second round and ended Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the medal stage.
Captain Harmanpreet Singh led India’s strong start, scoring twice. Abhishek also found the net twice as India took an early lead. Pakistan responded through Sufyan Khan and Hannan Shahid, who scored twice to bring the game back to life.
India had dominated the opening quarter with strong pressure and quick attacks. Pakistan, however, improved as the match went on and made India work hard for the result.
In the third quarter, India regained control through a solid midfield display led by Vivek Sagar Prasad. Hardik Singh then converted a penalty stroke to give India a crucial fifth goal.
Pakistan continued to attack late in the game, with Hannan Shahid completing his brace. India held firm until the final whistle.
The victory also extended India’s unbeaten run against Pakistan to 3,842 days. India will now face the Netherlands and either Argentina or New Zealand in the second round.