AMSTELVEEN, Netherlands: Pakistan’s campaign at the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026 took another disappointing turn as they went down 4-2 to New Zealand in their 9th-to-16th place classification match at the Wagener Stadium on Monday.
Despite a valiant second-half resurgence that briefly reignited hopes of a comeback, the Green Shirts were ultimately undone by a fast-starting New Zealand side that established an unassailable early lead.
FT: New Zealand 4-2 Pakistan
Defeat means Pakistan will now face South Africa in the 11th-12th place match of the Hockey World Cup 2026.#Hockey #HWC2026 pic.twitter.com/QpQv8j3sSb
— Muneeb Farrukh (@Muneeb313_) August 24, 2026
New Zealand’s blistering start stuns Pakistan
The Black Sticks delivered a devastating blow within the opening 20 seconds of the match, with Dylan Thomas scoring a sensational field goal to give New Zealand the earliest possible advantage. The early strike set the tone for what would become a dominant first-half display from the Kiwis.
Pakistan struggled to find their rhythm as the first quarter ended with New Zealand firmly in control, holding onto their one-goal lead while denying the Green Shirts any clear scoring opportunities.
Kiwis extend lead before halftime
New Zealand’s pressure paid further dividends in the second quarter as Scott Boyde found the net in the 16th minute, doubling the lead. George Baker added a third just six minutes later in the 22nd minute, sending New Zealand into the break with a commanding 3-0 advantage.
The Pakistani defence appeared rattled by New Zealand’s relentless attacking play, and the Green Shirts found themselves with a mountain to climb in the second half.
Pakistan fight back raises hopes
Showing remarkable character, Pakistan emerged from the dressing room with renewed purpose in the third quarter. Sufyan Khan ignited the comeback in the 33rd minute, pulling one goal back and giving Pakistan a glimmer of hope.
The momentum shifted dramatically when Afraz scored just five minutes later in the 38th minute, reducing the deficit to a single goal at 3-2. The Green Shirts pressed forward with renewed energy, searching desperately for an equaliser.
Read Also: Pakistan’s Hockey World Cup Run Ends
Russell restores Kiwi advantage
However, New Zealand steadied themselves and delivered the knockout blow early in the final quarter. Kane Russell converted a penalty corner in the 49th minute to restore New Zealand’s two-goal cushion at 4-2.
Despite both sides creating multiple opportunities in the closing stages, neither could add to the scoreline, and the match ended with Pakistan falling short in their comeback bid.
FULL TIME: NEW ZEALAND 4-2 PAKISTAN 🏑
Pakistan will now take on South Africa in the 11th-12th place match at the Hockey World Cup 2026. pic.twitter.com/rGIR559GZr
— PTV Sports (@PTVSp0rts) August 24, 2026
What lies ahead for Pakistan
The 4-2 victory saw New Zealand top Pool G standings with nine points, earning them a ninth-place playoff against Ireland at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Belgium on Friday.
For Pakistan, the result means they are now out of contention for a ninth-place finish. The Green Shirts will instead face South Africa in the 11th/12th position match at the Wagener Stadium on Friday, as they look to end their World Cup campaign on a positive note.
Read Also: Pakistan Hold Wales to Thrilling 3-3 Draw in Hockey World Cup
Pakistan’s World Cup journey so far
Pakistan’s tournament has been marked by inconsistency. In the main round, the Green Shirts endured a difficult run, suffering defeats against England and arch-rivals India, managing only a single point from a 3-3 draw against Wales. These results meant Pakistan failed to qualify for the next round.
However, there was a moment of redemption in their first classification match against Japan on Saturday, where Pakistan secured a 4-3 victory. The win was particularly significant as it marked Pakistan’s first victory in the FIH Hockey World Cup since their 2-1 triumph over Spain in the 2010 edition, finally ending a 16-year drought in the tournament.
Read Also: Pakistan End 16-Year World Cup Drought with Thrilling 4-3 Victory Over Japan
While the defeat against New Zealand is a setback, Pakistan’s fighting spirit in the second half and their historic win against Japan demonstrate that the Green Shirts possess the talent to compete at this level.
The match against South Africa on Friday offers an opportunity to finish the tournament on a high note and build momentum for future competitions.
