Australia, Spain secure victories in Hockey World Cup 2026

Australia began their FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Ireland in Pool C at the Belfius Hockey Arena

WAVRE: Australia began their FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Ireland in Pool C at the Belfius Hockey Arena on Sunday.

The Australian side, ranked third in the world, produced a strong attacking display in the opening half and established a commanding three-goal advantage before the interval. Joel Rintala was the standout performer for Australia, scoring twice, while Blake Govers also found the net through a penalty corner.

Australia opened the scoring when Rintala successfully converted an opportunity to beat Irish goalkeeper Jamie Carr. The early goal gave Australia confidence, and they continued to apply pressure on Ireland’s defence. Rintala then struck again to double Australia’s advantage and put Ireland under increasing pressure.

The Australians continued their dominance before half-time, with Blake Govers adding another goal from a penalty corner. His successful conversion gave Australia a comfortable 3-0 lead at the break and left Ireland facing a difficult task in the second half.

Ireland returned after the interval with a much more aggressive approach. The Irish players adopted a higher press and began creating more opportunities around the Australian circle. Luke Witherow came close to reducing the deficit, but Australian goalkeeper Ash Thomas produced an excellent save to deny him.

Ireland eventually managed to get on the scoresheet when Ali Empey converted a rebound following a penalty corner. The goal gave the Irish side renewed hope of making a comeback and changed the momentum of the contest.

However, Australia’s defence remained composed under pressure. Ireland continued searching for additional goals and created several late opportunities, but Thomas stood firm in front of the Australian goal. With less than three minutes remaining, the goalkeeper made three important saves to prevent Ireland from narrowing the gap further.

Australia successfully protected their 3-1 advantage until the final whistle, securing an important victory in their opening Pool C fixture.

In the other Pool C match, Spain also made an impressive start to their World Cup campaign by defeating South Africa 3-1.

Spain, known as the Redsticks, immediately took control of the contest and put South Africa under considerable pressure. Their attacking efforts produced two goals in quick succession during the first half. Forward Marc Reyne opened the scoring in the 11th minute before Jose Basterra doubled Spain’s advantage just one minute later.

Spain continued to dominate possession and maintain pressure on their opponents. Basterra added his second goal towards the end of the second quarter, giving Spain a commanding 3-0 lead at half-time.

South Africa fought back after the break and managed to score through Mustapha Cassiem in the third quarter. The goal provided some encouragement, but Spain remained in control and prevented South Africa from producing a stronger comeback.

Despite South Africa’s efforts in the latter stages, Spain comfortably held on to their advantage and completed a 3-1 victory.

With both Australia and Spain winning their opening matches, Pool C has begun with strong performances from the two sides as the competition for the knockout stages intensifies.