India Secures Spot in FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026

India, 14 December 2025 — The Indian men's hockey team has successfully qualified for the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026 after a decisive win against Malaysia in the Asian Champions Trophy held in Dhaka. The Indian team clinched the victory with a score of 3-1, ensuring their place in the prestigious tournament. The match took place on December 13, 2025, and witnessed a strong performance from the Indian forwards, who capitalized on penalty corners to secure the lead early on.

India's captain, Harmanpreet Singh, was instrumental in the team's success, scoring two goals, while Mandeep Singh added another to the tally. The team demonstrated solid defensive play, maintaining their advantage against a resilient Malaysian side. This victory marks a significant achievement for India, as it continues to build momentum ahead of the World Cup.

The qualification is crucial for India, as it reflects the team's consistent improvement and strategic efforts in the international arena. With the World Cup scheduled to be hosted in The Netherlands in 2026, the Indian team's qualification underscores their potential to compete at the highest level.

As the Indian team prepares for the upcoming challenges, their focus will be on refining their strategies and enhancing performance under the guidance of coach Graham Reid. The team's qualification also boosts the sport's popularity in India, inspiring young athletes to pursue hockey.

The Asian Champions Trophy, ongoing in Dhaka, serves as a vital platform for Asian teams to test their skills and strategies, with India making its mark with this significant victory.