India head coach Craig Fulton was pleased with how his side managed the emotions and expectations of a World Cup game against Pakistan in its 5-3 victory here on Wednesday. The win ensured India’s passage to the next round after finishing second in the Pool behind England.
“We had a great start and I thought that’s all we needed. We needed to make sure we got two-three goals ahead. We didn’t have such a good second quarter. But, at half-time, we regrouped and we had a good plan. They put us under a bit of pressure in the second [half],” Fulton said after the game.
He added, “Overall, happy with the result. [It’s a big game] so emotions are high. Everyone’s trying their best and sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. But, I’m glad we had a game plan that we stuck to most of the time.”
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While skipper Harmanpreet Singh is firing with his Penalty Corner conversions, taking his tally to tournament-high five goals, India also managed a couple of field goals through forward Abhishek Nain. The South African tactician felt his side had found a good balance with the chances created both from field play and set pieces.
“I thought we left one or two goals out there for sure [from field play]. But, I’m happy with the balance on how we played,” said Fulton.
He, however, shut down on concerns that his team is faced with a drop in intensity as it did in the second quarter against Pakistan and in the third quarter during the 4-2 loss to England.
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Ahead of a daunting second round, where India will likely face co-host Netherlands first, Harmanpreet stressed that his side needed to shore up the defence. India has shipped eight goals in the three games, making it the third-worst defensive record this tournament.
“100% defence,” said the 30-year-old, “because if you risk the opportunities, it will work. But if you make a mistake in the back, it won’t be safe. So I think that is one area… But [its] not just [about] defence. If you are winning the ball in your 25, make sure you keep the ball and [make the right pass]. Those are the silly mistakes we are getting punished for. But if we do that well, I think we are in good shape.”
Published on Aug 20, 2026
