India held England to a tense 0-0 draw in their final Pool D match of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 in Amstelveen on Thursday, securing second place and a spot in the next round.
India needed only a draw to progress, while England had to win. England dominated after half-time, earning 12 penalty corners and making 28 circle entries, but India’s defence held firm. Goalkeepers Bichu Devi and Savita produced crucial saves, while the Indian players repeatedly blocked England’s penalty-corner attempts. England removed their goalkeeper late in search of a winner, but India refused to buckle under pressure.
India finished the pool stage with five points and will now face hosts and world No.1 Netherlands before taking on Australia.