Spain men qualified for the FIH World Cup next year after a 2-0 win over Germany as the months-long FIH Pro League ended on Sunday.
The consistent Spanish finished third in the men’s table behind winners the Netherlands and Belgium, the co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup.
Captain Alvaro Iglesias said: “Every time you win, you’re always very grateful, but if you win it with a bigger prize like getting the ticket for the World Cup, it’s amazing.”
Belgium men finished in second spot after claiming a shoot-out win over England, the latter scoring two late goals to draw 4-4 in normal time.
Netherlands women lifted the Pro League trophy for a fifth time after sealing their campaign with a shoot-out win over Belgium in Antwerp on Sunday.
It was left to a last-gasp penalty corner from Yibbi Jansen to stave off only a second defeat in 16 games.
India suffered a second defeat at the hands of China to confirm their relegation from the women’s competition.
Relegation had been a three-way battle with Germany, England and India.
England secured survival with a 1-0 win over Germany on Saturday, with Sabbie Heesh making a vital late penalty stroke save.
Germany then beat England 4-2 on Sunday as England finished second bottom.
Top Scorers:
Women – Yibbi Jansen (NED) (19 goals)
Men – Tom Boon (BEL) (21 goals)
