Amstelveen, Aug. 31 -- The 2026 Hockey World Cup will be remembered for broken barriers, missed opportunities and shifting hierarchies, with Argentina ending the long Dutch reign in women's hockey, Germany retaining the men's title and India once again left to rue a missed opportunity.
For 16 days, hockey took centre stage across the Netherlands and Belgium, the first time since the 1998 World Cup in Utrecht that the men's and women's tournaments were played simultaneously, though in two countries.
It was like a carnival in Amstelveen with packed stands, mostly orange soaked passionate fans and music.
Secluded Wavre offered a more intimate and feel with fans enjoying hockey over drinks and waffles, adding a distinct Belgian flavour to the tournament.
The biggest story of the women's competition was the end of Dutch dominance. Nine-time champions and Paris Olympic gold medalist the Netherlands were denied a fourth successive World Cup title by a courageous Argentina in front of a packed home crowd.
The final was locked at 1-1 after 60 minutes before Argentina prevailed 3-1 in the shootout. Argentina had last won the title in Rosario in 2010. Rosario incidentally is the birthplace of legendary Lionel Messi. Belgium defeated Australia for bronze, while Paris Olympic silver medalist China finished eighth.
The women's tournament showed how narrow the margins have become. Both semi-finals and the bronze-medal match were decided by a single goal, while the final went to a shootout.
Dutch drag-flicker Yibbi Jansen was the top scorer with eight goals and also reached 100 international goals.
Germany retained the title won in Bhubaneswar in 2023, defeating Spain in the final at Belfius arena, Wavre. Spain, after stunning hosts the Netherlands, reached the final for the first time since 1998 and pushed Germany hard.
But a 44th-minute goal and Germany's disciplined defence proved decisive, giving them a fourth World Cup title and taking them level with Pakistan.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.