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NEW DELHI: India capped off an unbeaten campaign in style by defeating hosts New Zealand 2-0 in the final to lift the FIH Women’s Nations Cup title on Sunday. The victory also secured India’s promotion to the FIH Women’s Pro League next season, marking their return to the elite competition.It was India’s second Nations Cup triumph after winning the inaugural edition in 2022. Navneet Kaur opened the scoring in the fourth minute with a powerful penalty-corner strike before Sunelita Toppo doubled the lead in the 15th minute by deflecting Deepika‘s effort. Despite New Zealand enjoying plenty of possession, India stayed solid at the back and never allowed the hosts a clear route back into the contest.
Dominant campaign ends with glory
India had 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 as the joint-highest scorer with six goals, sharing the honour with USA’s Ashley Sessa, while Lalremsiami was named Player of the Match in the final.After taking a two-goal lead, India focused on maintaining their shape and defending with discipline. Goalkeeper Savita made an important save from a New Zealand penalty corner in the final quarter, while the defence frustrated the hosts with a compact structure and high intensity.To celebrate the achievement, Hockey India announced a cash reward of Rs 3 lakh for each player and Rs 1.5 lakh for every member of the support staff.
