India's men's hockey team endured a sobering World Cup campaign, exiting the tournament after a 5‑3 semi‑final defeat to Argentina. The loss capped a series of setbacks that included earlier defeats to England and the Netherlands, leaving the side with a 16‑goal concession record – the worst since 2010.
Defensive frailties surface
Head coach Craig Fulton openly criticised the team's defensive lapses, describing them as "silly mistakes" that cost precious goals. He noted that the side conceded 12 of their 16 goals from open play, highlighting a lack of cohesion and rhythm that had plagued the squad throughout the tournament.
India's offensive output was equally underwhelming. The team managed only five field goals from 14 attempts, a conversion rate that underscored a blunt attack against higher‑ranked opponents. The forward line, missing key contributors such as Rupinder Pal Singh, Birender Lakra and veteran goalkeeper P R Sreejesh, struggled to find rhythm.
The campaign also reflected a broader decline in form. In the 2026 season the team recorded ten defeats in 21 matches and shipped 45 goals, a stark contrast to the bronze‑medal performances of the previous Olympic cycle. Their eighth‑place finish in the FIH Pro League, with just four wins from 16 games, foreshadowed the World Cup difficulties.
A look ahead
With several senior players absent, younger athletes like Harmanpreet Singh and Sanjay were given opportunities, but inconsistencies persisted. Forward Hardik Singh, normally a reliable scorer, failed to meet his usual standards. A late defensive error allowed Argentina's Nicolas della Torre to convert a penalty corner, illustrating the marginal moments that defined the tournament.
India will now face Belgium in the seventh‑eighth classification match, a symbolic finale to a season that has raised serious questions about the team's competitiveness on the world stage.