Germany successfully defended their FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup title with a 1-0 victory over Spain at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre, Belgium. Michel Struthoff scored the decisive goal late in the third quarter, calmly rounding goalkeeper Luis Calzado after Hannes Muller’s reverse pass.
Spain dominated possession and created more chances but struggled to break Germany’s disciplined defence. Jean-Paul Danneberg made crucial saves, while Teo Hinrichs produced an important defensive block as Germany withstood Spain’s pressure. Spain made their first World Cup final appearance but were denied their maiden title, extending their wait after previous final defeats in 1971 and 1998.
Germany’s triumph also saw them equal the record for four men’s World Cup titles. Andre Henning’s revamped squad again delivered on the biggest stage.