New Delhi: India will look to maintain their unbeaten run against Pakistan and secure a place in the second round of the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup when the arch rivals meet in a crucial Pool D match on Wednesday.
India have collected three points from their opening two games and need at least a draw to progress. Pakistan, with just one point, face a must win contest to keep their campaign alive. England have already secured qualification after winning both their matches.
India began the tournament with a 3-1 victory over Wales before suffering a 2-4 defeat against world No. 3 England. Defensive lapses and an inconsistent penalty corner conversion rate remain key concerns for coach Craig Fulton.
Pakistan have also endured a difficult start. They lost 1-4 to England before being held to a 3-3 draw by Wales. Their defence and penalty corner execution have yet to reach the required level, leaving them under significant pressure against India.
Recent encounters strongly favour India. The Indian team defeated Pakistan 7-1 and 4-3 during the European leg of the Pro League earlier this year. Pakistan’s last victory over India came at the 2016 Champions Trophy.
India’s recent international record also gives them confidence, having won medals at the last two Olympic Games. Pakistan, meanwhile, are returning to the World Cup after an eight year absence and have missed the 2014 and 2023 editions.
India’s veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh, who has 419 international appearances, said the team would respect Pakistan’s strengths and avoid giving away unnecessary penalty corners.
Pakistan captain Abu Bakar Mahmood stressed that rankings and past results would not determine the outcome, insisting that performance on match day would matter most.
The last World Cup meeting between the rivals came in Delhi in 2010, when India won 4-1. With qualification at stake, Wednesday’s encounter promises to be a high pressure battle where India will start as favourites but cannot afford to underestimate their neighbours.