Goa, Aug. 21 -- India's men's and women's hockey teams will face a major challenge as they begin their respective second-stage campaigns at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 against reigning Olympic champions the Netherlands.

The Netherlands, which won gold in both men's and women's hockey at the Paris 2024 Olympics, will provide a stern test for the Indian teams as the World Cup enters its decisive phase. With semi-final places at stake, both sides will be keen to make a strong start.

The Indian women's team will be the first to face the Dutch, taking on co-hosts the Netherlands on August 21 at 9:30 pm IST at the Wagener Stadium. India advanced to the second stage unbeaten after recording a 6-1 victory over South Africa and playing out a g...