India continued their impressive run at the FIH Women’s Nations Cup 2026, securing a place in the semi-finals with a determined 2-1 victory over Japan in their second Pool A encounter at the North Harbour National Hockey Centre in Auckland on June 16.
After opening their campaign with a win over the United States, the Indian women produced another composed performance under pressure to register back-to-back victories and move to the top of the group standings. Captain Salima Tete led from the front with a crucial goal and an influential display, earning the Player of the Match award, while forward Lalremsiami scored the decisive winner in the final quarter. The match also marked a significant personal milestone for midfielder Jyoti, who celebrated her 100th senior international appearance for India.
The contest began cautiously, with both teams displaying disciplined defensive structures and limiting clear scoring opportunities. India enjoyed periods of possession and looked threatening through quick transitions, while Japan relied on their speed and structured passing game to test the Indian backline. Despite several circle entries from both sides, neither team managed to find a breakthrough during the opening two quarters. Goalkeepers and defenders remained alert as the first half ended in a deadlock.
The intensity increased immediately after the interval, with India finally opening the scoring in the 33rd minute through a well-worked penalty corner routine. Navneet Kaur’s strike from the set piece was expertly redirected by Nikki Pradhan, allowing captain Salima Tete to pounce and guide the ball into the net. The goal gave India a deserved lead and injected energy into the contest. However, Japan responded swiftly and demonstrated why they remain one of Asia’s most competitive hockey nations.
Just two minutes later, Hiramitsu Ai converted a penalty corner to restore parity for Japan. The equaliser ensured the match remained finely balanced heading into the final quarter, with both sides pushing for a crucial second goal. India eventually found the breakthrough in the 49th minute through Lalremsiami. Veteran midfielder Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam delivered a precise pass from the edge of the circle into a dangerous area, where Lalremsiami timed her run perfectly and deflected the ball beyond the Japanese goalkeeper.
The goal proved decisive as India maintained their composure in the closing stages. The defence absorbed late pressure from Japan and successfully protected the lead to secure all three points. The victory continues India’s strong momentum in the tournament, which serves as an important platform for teams aspiring to earn promotion to the elite level of international hockey. The FIH Women’s Nations Cup features emerging hockey nations competing for a chance to strengthen their standing in the global game.
India entered the tournament among the favourites and have so far justified that status with disciplined performances in both attack and defence. Under the leadership of Salima Tete, the squad has shown resilience, tactical awareness and an ability to deliver in crucial moments.
With the win, unbeaten India climbed to the top of Pool A with six points from two matches, having defeated both the United States and Japan. The result also guaranteed India’s place in the semi-finals with a game to spare.
Attention will now turn to India’s final group-stage fixture against Uruguay on June 18 at 4:15 am IST. While qualification has already been secured, the match presents an opportunity for India to maintain their winning momentum and finish the pool stage as group leaders. Meanwhile, the battle for the second semi-final berth from Pool A remains open. Japan and the United States will face each other in a crucial encounter that will determine which team joins India in the knockout stage.
For India, the victory over Japan was another statement of intent. Combining defensive discipline, creative attacking play and strong leadership, the team continues to build confidence as it moves one step closer to its goal of lifting the FIH Women’s Nations Cup 2026 title.
