India and Pakistan will renew their arch rivalry when they take the field at the Wagener Hockey Stadium on Wednesday. With England already qualified, only one of India or Pakistan can make it to the next round. Pakistan need a win to remain in contention, while India could qualify with a draw, depending on the England vs Wales result.

India and Pakistan will resume their rivalry knowing that a win could knock out the other in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026. The two rivals meet at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 on Wednesday, the stakes could hardly be higher. A defeat could knock them out in the group stage, meaning tensions could be running high at the Wagener Hockey Stadium.

India are second in Pool D with three points after beating Wales 3-1 before losing 2-4 to England. Pakistan have only one point after drawing with Wales and suffering a 1-4 defeat against England.

England have already secured a top-two finish, leaving India, Pakistan and Wales competing for the other qualifying spot. India can guarantee their place in the next round with a victory over Pakistan, while a loss would end their campaign.

India also hold an advantage in goal difference, with zero compared with minus two for Wales and minus three for Pakistan.