Predicting a World Cup podium always carries risk, but the early rounds of the Hockey World Cup 2026 have already given us plenty to work with. Here’s our read heading into the crossover stage.
## Men’s event
Defending champions Germany remain the team to beat on paper, but the removal of Pakistan, eliminated after a 5-3 loss to India, covered in our [match analysis](india-vs-pakistan-hockey-world-cup-2026-match-analysis), has reshaped the draw. Co-hosts Belgium and the Netherlands both carry home advantage into the crossover pools, while Australia’s depth makes them a permanent medal threat. India’s win over Pakistan keeps them firmly in contention, but converting pool-stage form into semifinal results under the new structure, explained in our [format guide](hockey-world-cup-2026-new-format-explained), will be the real test.
## Women’s event
The Netherlands, nine-time world champions and reigning holders, start as favourites once again. India’s women, fresh off a Pro League gold and a record 6-1 win over South Africa, are the story to watch, a first-ever World Cup medal is within reach if they navigate the crossover pools cleanly.
## Our picks
– Men’s gold: Germany or the Netherlands
– Men’s bronze contender: India, Belgium or Australia
– Women’s gold: Netherlands
– Women’s dark horse: India
## Why the format makes this harder to call
Because results against common opponents carry into the crossover stage, small margins from the pool phase, like India’s four-goal haul against Pakistan, can matter more than usual. Track how these predictions age against reality in our [complete schedule and results](hockey-world-cup-2026-complete-schedule-results) hub, and follow India’s specific path in our [road to the final](india-hockey-world-cup-2026-road-to-final) breakdown.