NEW DELHI: India ended their unbeaten campaign in style by beating hosts New Zealand 2-0 in the final to lift the FIH Women’s Nations Cup title on Sunday. The win also secured India’s promotion to the FIH Women’s Professional League next season, marking their return to the elite competition.It was India’s second Nations Cup triumph after winning the first edition in 2022. Navneet Kaur opened the scoring in the fourth minute with a powerful corner kick before Sunelita Toppo doubled the lead in the 15th minute with a rebound Deepikaeffort. Despite New Zealand enjoying a lot of possession, India remained tight at the back and never allowed the hosts a clear route back into the contest.
A dominant campaign ends with glory
India looked strong throughout the tournament, beating USA, Japan and Uruguay in the group stage before crushing Chile 6-0 in the semi-finals. Deepika finished top scorer with six goals, sharing the honor with American Ashley Sessa, while Lalremsiami was named player of the match in the final.After a two-goal lead, India focused on maintaining form and disciplined defence. In the last quarter, goalkeeper Savita made an important defense of the New Zealand penalty area, while the defense frustrated the hosts with a compact structure and high intensity.To celebrate the success, Hockey India announced a prize money of 3 lakh rupees for each player and 1.5 lakh rupees for each support staff member.
