AMSTELVEEN: England beat Pakistan 4-1 in their opening Pool D match of the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium Netherlands 2026 at Wagener Hockey Stadium on Saturday.
The official match record showed Stuart Rushmere opening the scoring in the 12th minute before Sam Ward doubled England’s advantage during the second quarter.
Samuel Hooper scored immediately after halftime in the 31st minute. James Albery added England’s fourth goal in the 47th as Pakistan struggled to contain sustained attacking pressure.
Pakistan earned two penalty corners but failed to convert either opportunity. Their only goal arrived in the 50th minute, leaving insufficient time to reduce England’s three-goal advantage.
The victory put England top of Pool D on goal difference. India also collected three points after beating Wales 3-1 in the group’s earlier opening fixture.
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The match marked Pakistan’s return to the men’s World Cup for the first time since 2018. The four-time champions failed to qualify for the 2023 tournament.
According to the FIH tournament schedule, Pakistan next faces Wales at the same venue on August 17 at 3:30 p.m. PKT. Their final Pool D match against India is scheduled for August 19 at 6 p.m. PKT.
