The race for FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 spots heated up in Egypt’s Ismailia, where England and Pakistan advanced via semifinal triumphs on Friday. A 7-1 thrashing of Malaysia propelled England forward, while Pakistan’s 4-3 thriller over Japan showcased resilience under pressure.
England controlled the narrative against Malaysia. First-half resistance from Othman kept scores low at 1-0, but England’s third-quarter mastery was clinical. Hooper’s 36′ drag flick ignited the rout, Sorrsby added a reverse strike at 41′, and Rushmere’s backhand brilliance made it 4-0. Malaysia’s 50′ response via Hassan’s deflection was mere consolation before England’s trio of late goals from Wallace, Rushmere, and Hooper.
Pakistan’s path was fraught with tension. Ammad struck early at 9′, but Japan’s Uka equalized at 21′. Yamada’s drag flicks at 35′ and 41′ shifted momentum. Down but defiant, Pakistan exploded late: Mahmood at 52′, Khan’s pinpoint drag flick at 55′, Afraz’s deflection at 57′. With Japan awarded a penalty stroke, Raza’s instinctive save preserved the lead.
An epic England-Pakistan final awaits Saturday. Losers from semis vie for bronze and qualification hope. Egypt blanked Austria 4-0, eyeing fifth against China. These results highlight the qualifiers’ high stakes and unpredictable nature.