AUCKLAND, New Zealand, June 21 (ANI) —
The Indian Women’s Hockey Team was crowned champions of the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup New Zealand 2025–26 after defeating hosts New Zealand 2–0 in the final in Auckland on Sunday.
Navneet Kaur gave India an early lead in the 4th minute before Sunelita Toppo doubled the advantage in the 15th minute. India then produced a strong defensive display to protect their lead and seal the title.
Lalremsiami was named Player of the Match, while Deepika finished as joint top scorer of the tournament with six goals, sharing the honour with USA’s Ashley Sessa.
This marks India’s second Nations Cup title, having also won the inaugural edition in 2022. The team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, defeating the United States (3–2), Japan (2–1), and Uruguay (3–2) in the group stage before registering a commanding 6–0 win over Chile in the semi-final.
They carried their momentum into the final, delivering a disciplined and composed performance to secure a 2–0 victory over New Zealand.
Hockey India announced a cash award of ₹3 lakh for each player and ₹1.5 lakh for each member of the support staff in recognition of the team’s achievement.
In the final, New Zealand controlled early possession but India struck first when Navneet converted a penalty corner with a powerful finish in the 4th minute.
India’s attacking intensity continued, and they doubled their lead in the 15th minute through Sunelita Toppo, who deflected a shot from Deepika following another penalty corner.
The visitors maintained their momentum in the second quarter, though neither side added to the scoreline before half-time.
India remained solid defensively in the third quarter, denying the hosts clear scoring chances while continuing to threaten on the counterattack.
New Zealand earned a penalty corner early in the final quarter, but goalkeeper Savita produced a crucial save to preserve India’s two-goal advantage.
India maintained their defensive structure until the final whistle to secure a memorable championship victory. (ANI)
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