The Indian women’s hockey team delivered a commanding performance to defeat hosts New Zealand 2-0 in the final of the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2025-26, securing their second title in the tournament and earning promotion back to the FIH Pro League.
Navneet Kaur opened the scoring in the 4th minute with a clinical penalty corner conversion, while Sunelita Toppo doubled the lead in the 15th minute through a well-taken deflection. India’s defence, marshalled by captain Salima Tete, stood firm throughout the match, shutting out the New Zealand attack and maintaining a clean sheet in the knockout stages. Lalremsiami was named Player of the Match for her influential display in midfield.
The victory capped an unbeaten campaign for the Indian side, who topped their pool and thrashed Chile 6-0 in the semi-finals. This triumph marks a significant turnaround, coming just a year after their relegation from the Pro League. The win also positions India favourably for future Olympic qualification cycles.
PM Narendra Modi lauded the victory, saying that the players have brought pride and joy. He posted on X, “Congratulations to the women’s team for emerging as winners in the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup. The team played exceptionally well throughout the entire tournament. Best wishes to the team. May this win inspire several others to play hockey.”
Indian hockey players bring pride and joy!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 21, 2026
Congratulations to the women’s team for emerging as winners in the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup. The team played exceptionally well throughout the entire tournament. Best wishes to the team.
May this win inspire several others to… pic.twitter.com/EdZcpyRV3L
Following the triumph, Hockey India announced a cash prize of ₹3 lakh for each member of the victorious squad, recognising their outstanding effort and contribution to Indian hockey.
The team, coached by Sjoerd Marijne, showcased remarkable depth and resilience, blending experienced players with promising young talent. Former captain Viren Rasquinha lauded the squad’s performance and the swift resurgence of the women’s programme.
This success not only brings the trophy home for the second time but also boosts the momentum of Indian hockey on the global stage. Congratulations to the Indian women’s hockey team on this well-deserved victory.
