England opened their FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Pool D campaign with a dominant 4ā1 victory over Pakistan in front of a packed 10,000-capacity crowd at Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen (Nieuwe Kalfjeslaan 21, 1182 AM Amstelveen, Netherlands). The match marked Pakistan's return to World Cup hockey for the first time since 2022, bringing thousands of green-and-white clad supporters into the forest-adjacent arena on the northern edge of the Amsterdamse Bos.
What was the score in England vs Pakistan at HWC 2026?
Final Score: England 4 ā 1 Pakistan (Half-time: 1ā1)
- 14' ā½ Goal (England): Liam Ansell ā Penalty Corner drag-flick low to goalkeeper left
- 28' ā½ Goal (Pakistan): Muhammad Shahbaz Jr. ā Field goal following counter-attack transition
- 39' ā½ Goal (England): Phil Roper ā Deflection inside the 16-yard circle
- 47' ā½ Goal (England): Sam Ward ā Penalty Corner flick to top right corner
- 54' ā½ Goal (England): Nicholas Bandurak ā Field goal off reverse stick drive
Key Tactical Breakdown & Penalty Corner Stats
England generated 7 penalty corners, converting 2 (28% conversion rate). Pakistan earned 3 penalty corners, converting 0. Overall ball possession favored England at 56% to 44%, with England registering 11 shots on target compared to Pakistan's 4.
Spectator & Travel Info for Wagener Stadium (1182 AM)
Fans leaving the stadium after late matches should note that GVB Metro Line 25 from Amstelveenseweg station runs extended service until 00:30 CEST. Residential street parking in the 1182 AM zone is strictly restricted to resident permit holders with fines (boetes) of ā¬95 automatically issued. Drivers are advised to use P+R Riekerpolder (Postjesweg 1, ā¬8/day) and take the connect shuttle bus.
What is Pakistan's next match at HWC 2026?
Pakistan face Wales on August 17 at 09:30 CET (12:30 PKT / 13:00 IST) at Wagener Stadium, while England prepare for their blockbuster clash against India on August 17 at 12:00 CET (15:00 PKT / 15:30 IST).