The Lionesses closed the second phase of the 2026 Hockey World Cup with a goalless draw against Belgium and secured first place in Group F. In a tightly contested and tense match, the Argentine National Team was unable to impose its offensive game, but maintained a strong defensive performance to salvage a 0-0 that allowed them to avoid the Netherlands in the semifinals.
The match, played on Belgian soil (Wavre), began with a lot of parity. Argentina had a few more chances during the first quarter, although none turned into a clear goal-scoring opportunity. The game was marked by the battle in midfield and the attempts by both teams to capitalize on counterattacks.
The story did not change much in the second quarter. The team led by Fernando Ferrara showed solidarity in defense and managed to contain the Belgian advances, however, they struggled to create danger in the opponent's goal, even wasting their short corner opportunities.
In the second half, Argentina improved its offensive presence somewhat, but continued to lack precision in the final meters. Belgium, on the other hand, began to accumulate chances from their pressure and managed to push the game into Argentine territory.
