India’s women’s hockey team secured a place in the second round of the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 after holding England to a hard-fought 0-0 draw in their final Pool D match in Amstelveen, Netherlands.
India entered the match knowing that a draw would be enough to secure their place in the next round, while England needed a win to overtake them. The Indian defence stood firm throughout the contest despite sustained pressure from the English side.
Goalkeeper Bichu Devi played a crucial role in India’s qualification, making important saves during England’s late attacking surge. England even removed their goalkeeper in the final stages in an attempt to find a winning goal, but India managed to withstand the pressure and preserve the draw.
The result took India to five points, enough to finish second in Pool D behind China and advance to the second round. India had earlier drawn 2-2 against China and defeated South Africa 6-1.
India will now continue their campaign in the second round, with their hopes of reaching the semi-finals still alive.
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