Despite the setback against Australia, the Indian men’s hockey team remains in contention for a spot in the quarterfinals, where they could potentially face a formidable European opponent. The Indian women’s team faces a tougher challenge, having played against the top three Rio Olympics medalists in their initial matches.
To secure a quarterfinal berth, the Indian men need to focus on their upcoming matches against defending gold medallists Argentina and hosts Japan. Argentina, with only a 2-1 win over winless Japan, and a 5-2 loss to Australia, presents an opportunity for India. Japan, while improved, has only secured a point from a 2-2 draw with New Zealand. India should aim for convincing victories in these matches to boost their confidence for the knockout stages.
In terms of pool standings, Australia seems dominant, making it challenging for India to claim the top spot. Realistically, India should target the second position in Pool A. However, the difficulty factor remains similar for the second to fourth-placed teams in cross-over quarterfinals, with potential matchups against top European teams from Pool B – Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, or Great Britain. India must be error-free in the quarterfinals against these strong opponents.
The Indian women’s team, currently in fifth place in Pool A, faces a tough path to the knockout stage. With losses against the Netherlands, Germany, and Great Britain, they aim to secure the fourth spot. The remaining matches against Ireland and South Africa are crucial, with both teams having lost their initial matches. India not only needs victories but must also address their negative goal difference.
If the Indian women’s team miraculously advances to the last eight, they will likely face the top team from the other group, currently led by Australia. The competition in the other group is intense, with Argentina, New Zealand, and Spain all capable of challenging each other. In the improbable scenario of India advancing, they would likely face Australia in the quarterfinals.