Belgium have strong firepower in the forward-line with Tom Boon, who scored 19 goals in the Pro League this season, already netting five times in the World Cup. They also have PC specialist Alexander Hendrickx, who scored 15 goals in the Pro League.

Against co-hosts Belgium, India need to maintain their defensive shape even more. The match against Argentina exposed India's frailties. Experienced midfielders Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh will also have to take greater responsibility in controlling the game and creating chances.

Here's India's starting XI for the seventh-place match against Belgium:

Your Starting XI is here.

The Indian Men's Team names its Starting XI for the last game of the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium & Netherlands 2026, as they take on tournament co-hosts Belgium in the 7th/8th place clash.

Let's back the boys all the way! #HockeyIndia... pic.twitter.com/Bg6hK2ZRAV

— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) August 28, 2026

The bronze medalists from the 2020 and 2024 Olympics began their Hockey World Cup campaign with a lot of promise, outclassing Wales in their opening group game. However, since then, apart from a win over Pakistan, India have lost every single match.

In fact, India have not beaten a single team in this World Cup that is ranked above them in the FIH Outdoor Hockey Rankings. Will they be able to end that curse today?

A very welcome to one and all, to the live coverage of India's final match of the Men's Hockey World Cup 2026. Today, India take on co-hosts Belgium in the seventh-place match in Wavre. 

Stay tuned to NDTV Sports for all the live updates from the game!