Argentina vs Japan Preview & Prediction | 2026 Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup | First Round
Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!
Japan come into the World Cup as the lowest ranked side in the tournament and they are firm underdogs here against Argentina.
Kick-off date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – not televised / USA – USA’s matches will be televised live on CBS
How to watch online: UK – British home nation matches can be streamed live for free on Channel 4 Sport YouTube, while all matches can be streamed live on FIH Watch.Hockey / USA – USA’s matches can be streamed live on CBS digital platforms, while all matches can be streamed live on FIH Watch.Hockey
Argentina vs Japan prediction
The Pan American Cup winners in 2025 for a fifth time, Argentina sealed their place in the World Cup and outside of Australia, are the highest ranked non-European nation set to feature in the competition. With Netherlands also in Pool A, it does feel like them, New Zealand and Japan are fighting for second-place, which makes this an even more important game for the Argentinians.
Japan edged through the qualifiers to reach the World Cup despite being thrashed by England and eventually losing to Pakistan. Ultimately, they are the bottom ranked side for the reason and their defence is in for a long tournament both mentally and physically. It would be a shock if they were to upset Argentina, so back the latter.
Argentina vs Japan tip: Argentina to win
