India vs Netherlands Live Score, Hockey World Cup 2026: India face tough Dutch test in World Cup second round

The match will be a major test of India’s semifinal hopes. After a mixed first round, India have little room for mistakes against one of the strongest teams in world hockey.

India need to avoid another collapse

India’s biggest concern has been their inability to maintain control after making strong starts.

They led Pakistan 3-0 and then 4-1 before allowing their arch-rivals to fight back. India eventually won the match 5-3.

Against England, India also had a 2-1 lead at half-time but conceded twice in the third quarter and went on to lose 2-4.

Those lapses will be a major concern against the Netherlands, who have shown little weakness so far.

Dutch arrive in top form

The Netherlands won all three of their first-round matches convincingly.

They opened with a 5-1 win over New Zealand before beating Argentina 3-1 and Japan 4-1.

Against one of the most dangerous attacking sides in world hockey, India cannot afford to lose concentration for even short periods.

The challenge will also extend beyond the players on the pitch.