Amstelv, Aug 21:
India produced a resolute defensive display to hold England to a goalless draw in their final Pool D match and secure a place in the second round of the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 in Amstelveen, Netherlands.
Needing to avoid defeat to progress, India defended bravely throughout the contest, thwarting repeated English attacks to eke out a hard-fought 0-0 draw.
The result capped a strong pool-stage campaign for Marijne’s side. India had earlier held world No. 4 and Olympic silver medallists China to a 2-2 draw before registering an emphatic 6-1 victory over South Africa.
Against England, however, India were forced to dig deep, with their defence standing firm under sustained pressure to ensure the crucial point needed for qualification.
With two draws and a commanding win in the group stage, India advanced to the second round, keeping their World Cup campaign alive.