The Indian women’s hockey team continued its remarkable run at the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2025-26 in Auckland, producing a clinical display to outclass Chile 6-0 in the semi-final on Saturday. The emphatic victory extended India’s unbeaten streak in the tournament and secured a place in the championship match, keeping alive their hopes of returning to the FIH Pro League. India’s campaign has been built on consistency, attacking flair, and disciplined defending, all of which were on full display against the South American side.
Having entered the semi-final on the back of victories against the United States, Japan, and Uruguay in the group stage, India arrived with confidence and momentum. The side, led by captain Salima Tete, had already demonstrated resilience throughout the tournament, including a comeback victory over the USA and a hard-fought win against Japan that secured their semi-final berth.
India wasted little time in asserting control over the contest against Chile. Dominating possession and creating opportunities from the outset, they earned their first penalty corner in the sixth minute. Navneet Kaur stepped up and made the chance count, firing a powerful effort into the corner of the net to hand India an early advantage.
The opening goal settled the Indian side, and they soon doubled their lead through another well-worked move. In the 13th minute, captain Salima Tete produced a brilliant run down the left flank before delivering a precise cross into the circle. Navneet was perfectly positioned in front of goal and deftly redirected the ball into the net to score her second goal of the match.
Chile had barely recovered from the setback when India’s penalty corner specialist Deepika took center stage. Just a minute after Navneet’s second strike, Deepika converted a penalty corner to make it 3-0. She struck again in the 18th minute, once more capitalising on a set-piece opportunity to extend India’s lead to four goals before the end of the first quarter.
Deepika’s impressive brace not only put India firmly in command but also propelled her to the top of the tournament’s scoring charts with six goals. Her consistent performances throughout the competition have played a crucial role in India’s march to the final. With a comfortable 4-0 cushion heading into the second half, India showed no signs of easing off. The team’s high pressing game and swift ball movement continued to trouble Chile, who struggled to find any rhythm against the relentless Indian attack.
The fifth goal arrived in the 32nd minute when Neha converted yet another penalty corner, highlighting India’s efficiency from set-piece situations. The goal further underlined the team’s meticulous preparation and execution in dead-ball scenarios.
India’s sixth and final goal came seven minutes later. Rutuja Dadaso Pisal joined the scoresheet with a superb reverse-hit finish from open play in the 39th minute. Her strike completed a dominant attacking performance and effectively ended any hopes of a Chilean comeback.
While India’s forwards grabbed the headlines, the defensive unit also delivered an outstanding performance. Veteran goalkeeper Savita remained alert throughout the match and produced a couple of important saves in the final quarter when Chile attempted to salvage some pride. Her calm presence ensured India maintained a clean sheet and completed one of their most comprehensive victories of the tournament.
Captain Salima Tete’s influence extended far beyond her assist. The midfielder controlled the tempo, linked defence with attack, and provided leadership throughout the contest. Her all-round display earned her the ‘Player of the Match’ award and once again highlighted why she remains one of the most influential figures in Indian women’s hockey.
The victory marked India’s fourth consecutive win at the Nations Cup and reinforced their status as one of the tournament favourites. The competition, being held in Auckland from June 15 to 21, features eight teams battling for the prestigious title and a pathway back to the elite FIH Pro League. India previously won the inaugural Women’s Nations Cup in 2022 and entered this year’s tournament determined to reclaim the crown.
With confidence soaring and every department functioning effectively, India now heads into the final eager to complete an unbeaten campaign and lift the trophy. The dominant display against Chile served as a strong statement of intent as the Women in Blue moved one step closer to Nations Cup glory.
