India men’s hockey team finishes eighth in World Cup after shootout loss to Belgium

August 28, 2026 3 Min Read

By Ananya Iyer — 28 August 2026 — 3 min read

The Indian men’s hockey team concluded their World Cup campaign in eighth place after a penalty shootout loss to Belgium. The match, which determined the seventh and eighth positions, saw the two sides draw 3-3 in regulation time before Belgium secured the win in the shootout.

India began the match strongly, with Abhishek scoring a field goal in the sixth minute to give the hosts a 1-0 lead. Belgium, however, responded with pressure, earning several penalty corners. The second quarter saw a shift in momentum as Roman Duvekot equalized for Belgium, followed by Hugo Labouchere’s drag-flick from a penalty corner, putting Belgium ahead 2-1 at half-time.

Second Half Comeback and Shootout Drama

After the break, India fought back, with captain Harmanpreet Singh converting a penalty corner in the 31st minute to level the score at 2-2. The goal was reviewed but upheld. The third quarter remained competitive, with Belgium maintaining possession, but India held their defensive shape to keep the score tied going into the final quarter.

Belgium regained the lead in the 47th minute through a field goal by Nicolas de Kerpel. This goal was also reviewed for a possible obstruction, but the original decision stood, making it 3-2. During this period, Manpreet Singh sustained a facial injury from a mistimed shot and had to leave the field for medical attention. The incident led to a brief stoppage as blood was cleaned from the playing surface.

Players in action during the seventh-eighth play-off match between India and Belgium on Friday Credit: newindianexpress.com

With time winding down, India opted to remove their goalkeeper, adding an extra outfield player in pursuit of an equalizer. This strategic move paid off in the final minute when Harmanpreet Singh scored his second goal, bringing the score to 3-3 and forcing a penalty shootout.

The shootout started unfavorably for India. Harmanpreet’s initial attempt was saved by Belgium goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch, who also denied Sukhjeet Singh. India eventually found their rhythm, with Shilanand Lakra opening their account. Dilpreet Singh then converted to bring the shootout level at 2-2.

Belgium took the lead again after a penalty stroke was awarded when Mohith fouled Van Dessel, which Hendrickx converted. Abhishek scored for India, making it 3-3 in the shootout. The decisive moment came when Duvekot scored for Belgium. India’s referral to overturn the decision was unsuccessful, confirming Belgium’s victory in the shootout.

Team Performance and Future Questions

India’s performance at the World Cup has been viewed in different ways. While the team finished eighth, matching their world ranking, some observers have noted inconsistencies in their play. The team’s games have been characterized by moments of confusion and a porous defense, particularly evident in their defensive structure.

Over the last two Pro League campaigns in 2025 and 2026, the team conceded 77 goals in 32 games. This defensive vulnerability has been a recurring issue, with the team giving away numerous opportunities from open play during the World Cup. Despite having been considered one of the best out-of-possession sides in previous years, this has not been the case in the recent tournament.

During the World Cup, India faced four higher-ranked teams, including Belgium and the Netherlands. They drew one match and lost three of these encounters. Across the 240 minutes played in these four games, India held a lead for approximately half an hour. The team’s results at the World Cup included a 3-1 win against Wales, a 2-4 loss to England, a 5-3 win over Pakistan, a 1-3 loss to the Netherlands, and a 3-5 loss to Argentina, culminating in the 3-3 draw against Belgium.

Questions have been raised regarding the team’s consistent performance against quality international opposition over the past year and a half. These questions are expected to be addressed by the leadership group and support staff in the coming weeks following the tournament’s conclusion.