England have secured top spot in Pool D of the Hockey World Cup after an emphatic 8-2 victory over Wales. Sam Ward opened England's scoring just 73 seconds into the match, followed by two goals from Will Calnan and a fourth from Tom Sorsby before half-time.
England captain Zach Wallace added a fifth goal from a rebound, with Sam Hooper, Henry Croft, and Nick Bandurak also scoring. Wales managed two late consolation goals from Gareth Furlong, one from a penalty stroke and another from a penalty corner, making him the tournament's top scorer.
England's high-tempo attack and resolute defence proved challenging for Wales, who struggled to create chances. This win marks the second time the two sides have met at a Hockey World Cup, with England also winning 5-0 in 2023. The two goals scored by Wales in this match equal their highest ever against England in a single game.