India’s bid to reach the semi-finals of the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 is alive with a 0-2 defeat at the hands of the Netherlands in the second round.
Salima Tete who lost, end up with fourth position with only one point in Group E. But the last round game could be crucial for India as it aims to qualify for semi-finals at the top of the group table.
The next test will be against Australia, with the two nations to meet up on Sunday. Australia also have one point after a dull 1-1 draw from China on the back of their better goal scored effort and are above India for now thanks to their goals scored advantage.
It means India will have an easy choice before the finale, they just have to beat Australia to keep their momentum going in the semis.
The outcome of the Netherlands’ match against China will also be crucial in the stand up of the remaining teams to be played before India against Australia will be played.
India will be hoping for Netherlands to not lose to the world’s second largest hockey power China. A win for the Dutch will make India even better, if they can secure three points against Australia.
The Indian side, however, will have to make considerable improve after fighting for a clearance in their last game against the Hollands. The loss compounded on the need for attacking opportunities to be converted at crucial moments of the Hockey tournament.
Despite a remaining group game against Australia to play, it looks like India’s group clash has become a must-win affair. If it’s a win then the campaign would remain in being and, if it’s the Netherlands win over China, leave them in the last-four bracket.
The Salima Tete side so needlessly enters the final round with a small margin for errors, yet there is still a possibility of thumping it as far as semi-final.