India’s difficult start to the FIH Pro League 2025–26 season continued in Hobart as they went down 0–2 to Spain at the Tasmania Hockey Centre on Saturday. The result marked a fifth consecutive loss for India, extending a worrying run that began during their home leg in Rourkela.
Goals from Ignacio Abajo in the sixth minute and Ignacio Cobos early in the third quarter ensured Spain secured their first win of the campaign, while India were left once again to reflect on missed opportunities and costly lapses.
India’s woes continue at FIH Pro League 2025–26
India entered the Hobart leg hoping for a reset after four defeats to Belgium and Argentina at home. However, the early exchanges suggested lingering issues.
Spain struck inside six minutes. A long ball into the Indian circle was not dealt with cleanly, and Ignacio Abajo reacted quickest, deflecting the ball past Suraj Karkera to give Spain the lead. It was a simple finish born out of defensive hesitation- a theme that has troubled India throughout this stretch.
The second quarter was more balanced, with both teams creating half-chances. Karkera produced a fine save off a Spanish penalty corner to keep the deficit at one goal. India’s defence, while occasionally stretched, showed resilience to prevent further damage before halftime.
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But the breakthrough Spain sought arrived soon after the restart.
In the 36th minute, Ignacio Cobos found himself unmarked inside the circle and finished clinically to double Spain’s advantage. India’s defensive organisation faltered once more, and Spain capitalised ruthlessly.
Goalkeepers Suraj Karkera and H.S. Mohith ensured the margin did not widen, pulling off crucial saves, especially during Spain’s sustained third-quarter pressure. In the final minutes, India withdrew their goalkeeper to add an extra outfield player, but Spain’s disciplined defence closed out the game comfortably.
Also Read: FIH Men’s Pro League 2025-26 Hobart Leg: India’s Schedule, Live Streaming Guide
Growing concerns
Five defeats from five matches leave India eighth in the standings, ahead of only Pakistan. More concerning than the results themselves is the pattern: slow starts, lapses in concentration, and inefficiency in front of goal.
Head coach Craig Fulton will be searching for solutions quickly. India’s structure and defensive discipline- hallmarks of their recent progress- have looked shaky, while their attacking cohesion has lacked fluency.
India now face hosts Australia in their next match of the Hobart leg- a daunting challenge against an unbeaten side.
For now, the wait for a first win in the FIH Pro League 2025–26 season continues.
