India finish eighth at FIH Hockey World Cup after shoot-out loss to Belgium

India's campaign at the FIH Hockey World Cup concluded with an eighth‑place finish after a shoot‑out defeat to Belgium. The match, decided by a series of penalty strokes, saw Belgium edge past India, ending the Indian side's hopes of a higher ranking. The result placed India among the top ten teams in the tournament, reflecting a respectable but disappointing finish for a nation with a strong hockey legacy. Coaches and players will now review the performance as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures and aim to improve in future World Cups.