India Secures Semi-Final Spot with Victory Over Japan in Women's Hockey Nations Cup
India Triumphs Against Japan in FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup
File image of Indian women hockey team(Photo: @ZafaronIndigo/X)
Auckland, June 16: In an exciting second Pool A match of the FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup 2026 held at the North Harbour National Hockey Centre, India emerged victorious against Japan with a score of 2-1, securing their place in the semi-finals after winning both of their pool matches.
Salima Tete, who captained the team and was named 'Player of the Match', scored the first goal in the 33rd minute, followed by Lalremsiami's goal in the 49th minute. Japan's only goal came from Hiramitsu Ai in the 35th minute. The match was particularly special for midfielder Jyoti, who celebrated her 100th senior international appearance.
The first half was tightly contested, with both teams creating opportunities but failing to score before the break.
In the third quarter, India broke the deadlock with a well-executed penalty corner variation. Navneet Kaur's shot was expertly deflected to Salima by Nikki Pradhan, allowing the captain to find the back of the net.
Japan quickly responded, with Hiramitsu converting a penalty corner just two minutes later to level the score.
As the final quarter unfolded, Lalremsiami netted the decisive goal in the 49th minute, following a precise pass from Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, ensuring India's victory.
This win places India at the top of Pool A with six points, following victories over both the USA and Japan.
India's next challenge will be against Uruguay in their final Pool A match on June 18, while Japan will compete against the USA for the second semi-final spot from Pool A.