Field hockey kicks off on July 27th and the Netherlands have a chance to complete the double
dutch, and win gold in both men’s and women’s events. The men haven’t won Olympic gold
since 2000 while the women have won three of the last four. But could there be upset potential
on either side? We’ll break it down as the countdown to Paris is underway.
Men’s Tournament
Belgium +325
Belgium is the defending Olympic champion and coming off a heartbreaking runner-up finish at
last year’s Worlds. They’ve been one of the more dominant countries in mens’ field hockey,
winning the 2018 Worlds before the gold in Tokyo. But will Belgium struggle under the pressure
of trying to repeat? We’ll find out in France.
Netherlands +350
The Netherlands finished runner-up at the 2014 and 2018 World Cup, and in 2010 and 2023,
they won bronze. The Dutch head to Paris on a 6-game win streak that includes two victories
over Australia, who are also a medal contender.
Germany +400
Germany looked impressive in last year’s World Championship winning four of seven matches
and were one of the highest scoring teams. They beat Belgium in penalties to win it all. They
won back-to-back Olympic titles in 2008 and 2012 but haven’t returned to the championship
match since. This could be the year for the Germans, in a wide open event in Paris.
Men's Hockey Gold Medal Odds
Belgium +325 Netherlands +350 Australia +350
Germany +400 India +1200 Great Britain +1400
Argentina +1400 Spain +2500 New Zealand +5000
France +6600 Ireland +6600 South Africa +10000
Women’s Tournament
Netherlands Women -180
The Netherlands are in a class of their own in women’s field hockey. The Dutch have won three
of the last four Olympic titles, three consecutive world championships and four of the last five.
The Netherlands have won nine world titles, seven more than second place. They’ve medaled
in 7 straight Summer Games and will be tough to knock off, but at these short odds, it’s difficult
to back the orange.
Argentina Women +600
Since 2002, Argentina has 2 world titles and finished runner-up to the Netherlands in 2022.
They also won silver at the Tokyo Games, losing to their rivals in the gold medal game. They
are destined to meet again, as they are in different groups. If they get there, could the third time
be the charm to finally defeat the Netherlands?? If you believe so, the price is pretty darn good.
Germany Women +700
Germany also has been knocking on the door, winning bronze in 2016, and finishing fourth at
the 2022 Worlds. They’re drawn into the same pool as the Dutch, but if they can get through the
knockout stage, it would set up a gold medal match against the Netherlands. But also in their
way would be Argentina in the semis. Still, the Germans are a good squad, just need a bit of
luck in Paris.
Women's Hockey Gold Medal Odds
Netherlands Women -180 Argentina Women +600 Germany Women +700
Australia Women +750 Belgium Women +1400 China Women +2500
Great Britain Women +2500 Spain Women +3300 Japan Women +6600
USA Women +15000 France Women +25000 South Africa Women +25000