LONDON, JUN 23 (IANS): India edged past Pakistan 4-3 in a thrilling FIH Pro League 2025-26 clash at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London on Tuesday. Pakistan struck first through Nadeem Ahmad in the 8th minute, but India responded strongly with goals from Abhishek (21st) and Nilakanta Sharma (24th) in the second quarter. Sukhjeet Singh (34th) and Rajinder Singh (52nd) extended the lead, giving India a commanding position.
Pakistan, however, capitalized on late Indian errors, with Abu Mahmood (53rd) and Moin Shakeel (60th) converting penalty corners to reduce the margin. All three of Pakistan’s goals came from set pieces, while India converted two of their 11 penalty corners.
The Men in Blue dominated overall play, registering 30 circle penetrations compared to Pakistan’s nine. This victory marked India’s third outright win in 13 matches, taking them to 13 points and seventh place in the nine-team table, ahead of Spain. Pakistan remain winless after 13 games, rooted at the bottom.
India’s recent form has been impressive, having defeated reigning World Champions Germany and hosts Netherlands in the Rotterdam leg. The win also extended India’s dominance over Pakistan, with no losses at senior or junior levels since 2016.
Craig Fulton’s side will next face hosts England on Wednesday before meeting Pakistan again on June 26. They conclude their campaign against England on June 29 at the same venue.
This result highlights India’s growing consistency in Europe and strengthens their momentum heading into the final rounds of the Pro League.
