Germany edge Spain to retain men’s Hockey World Cup

Germany retained the men’s Hockey World Cup title after beating Spain 1-0 in a tightly contested final at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre, Belgium, on Sunday night (August 31).

The victory gave Germany back-to-back World Cup titles and a fourth overall crown, drawing them level with Pakistan as the tournament’s most successful side.

Spain started brightly and looked the more aggressive team in attack, but Germany’s defence held firm throughout the opening two quarters. Neither side could break the deadlock before halftime.

The decisive moment came in the third quarter when Michel Struthoff scored in the 44th minute to put Germany ahead.

Spain pushed hard for an equaliser and created several opportunities in the closing stages, but Germany’s defence and goalkeeper stood their ground to preserve the lead.

The 1-0 victory secured Germany’s fourth World Cup title, following their previous triumphs in 2002, 2006 and 2023.

Spain, meanwhile, missed out on their first-ever men’s Hockey World Cup title after reaching the final following a long absence from the tournament’s showpiece match.