Amstelveen, 21 August (H.S.):

In the second phase of the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium-Netherlands 2026, the Indian men's and women's teams will face a formidable challenge from Olympic champions the Netherlands. Both Indian teams finished second in their respective pools to qualify for the second phase.

Women's Team to Face Netherlands Today

The Indian women's team will take on hosts the Netherlands in a Pool E encounter at the Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen at 9:30 pm on Friday. India began the first phase with a commanding 6-1 victory over South Africa, while their match against England ended in a goalless draw. They had also played out a draw against China earlier.

The draw between India and China left both teams with one point each, which could prove crucial in the second phase. The top two teams from Pools E and F will advance to the semifinals.

After facing the Netherlands, the Indian women's team will take on Australia at 10:30 pm on August 23.

Men's Team Also Up Against Netherlands

The Indian men's team will play its first second-phase match against the Netherlands at 7:30 pm on August 22. India will then face Argentina at 6:15 pm on August 24.

The men's team, however, will enter the second phase without carrying forward any points. England topped Pool D after defeating India 4-2 and will advance with one point.

India began its campaign with a 3-1 victory over Wales before defeating Pakistan 5-3 to finish second in the pool.

Road to Semifinals Set to Be Challenging

The Netherlands won gold medals in both the men's and women's hockey competitions at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Consequently, both Indian teams face a highly challenging task against the hosts.

The Indian women's team has so far displayed a good balance between attacking and defensive play, while the men's side concluded the first phase on a high with an impressive victory over Pakistan. Both teams will now have to make a fresh start in the second phase.

A strong opening against the Netherlands will be crucial for India to remain in contention for a place in the semifinals.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar