India Crash Out Of Men's Hockey World Cup 2026 Semi-Final Race After 3-5 Defeat To Argentina

India's men's hockey team have crashed out of the 2026 World Cup semi-final race after a 3-5 defeat to Argentina on Monday. Although Argentina's win over England kept India's qualification hopes technically alive, India needed a victory by at least three goals to make the last four.

Following the defeat, India finished with zero points from three Pool E matches. India now drop into the classification matches to play for seventh or eighth place against co-hosts Belgium on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 8:30 PM IST.

Early Deficit Hurts India

Argentina scored in the opening minute when Joaquin Toscani fired past goalkeeper Mohit HS. Nicolas Della Torre doubled the lead in the sixth minute from a penalty corner. India responded quickly in the 10th minute as Sukhjeet Singh scored after Abhishek set him up.

Despite creating chances, India struggled with passing and ball control. India trailed 1-2 at half-time as promising attacks broke down. Head coach Craig Fulton criticised the team's slow start. "We are giving them a lot of opportunities for no reason." Fulton said.

Argentina Dominate Second Half

Tomas Domene extended the Argentine lead to 3-1 in the 33rd minute. His reverse hit beat a disorganised Indian defence. This marked his seventh goal of the tournament, moving him ahead of Harmanpreet Singh's six goals.

India earned several penalty corners but failed to convert them. Harmanpreet's drag-flicks were either blocked or missed the target. Argentina then capitalised on another defensive error, with Domene converting a penalty stroke to make it 4-1. Fulton defended young backliner Yashdeep Siwach for two costly errors. "I think everyone didn't have a good day today. Not just one player." Fulton said.

Lucas Toscani added Argentina's fifth goal with a superb reverse hit in the 53rd minute.

Late Fightback Falls Short

India responded late, with Sukhjeet Singh scoring his second goal in the 58th minute. Hardik Singh then converted a penalty stroke in the 59th minute to make it 3-5. The late rally, however, could not change the outcome.

The Netherlands have already secured a semi-final place from Pool E. Argentina continue their dominance over India after beating them 8-0 and 4-2 in the FIH Pro League earlier this year.