Summary Pakistan began its campaign with a 4-1 defeat against England before battling Wales to a 3-3 draw in its second match
(Web Desk) - Pakistan and arch-rivals India will face off in a crucial match of the FIH Hockey World Cup today, with Pakistan needing a win to keep its hopes of reaching the next stage alive.
Pakistan began its campaign with a 4-1 defeat against England before battling Wales to a 3-3 draw in its second match.
India, meanwhile, defeated Wales 3-1 in its opening game but suffered a 4-2 loss to England in its second outing. England has already secured a place in the next stage after winning both of its matches.
A victory over India would take Pakistan's tally to four points and keep the national side in contention for qualification.
However, the qualification scenario could become complicated if Wales defeats England in its final pool match. In that case, the second team to progress from the pool could be decided on goal difference.
The highly anticipated Pakistan-India encounter is scheduled to begin at 6pm today and is expected to play a decisive role in determining both teams' chances of advancing in the tournament.
With qualification at stake, the traditional rivalry is set to add further intensity to an already high-stakes World Cup fixture.
