India Demolishes Chile 6-0 to Enter FIH Women’s Nations Cup Final

The Indian women’s hockey team advanced to the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2025-26 final following a comprehensive 6-0 semifinal victory against Chile in Auckland on Saturday. A relentless attacking display and a flawless defensive performance ensured India’s opportunity to compete for the tournament title.

The Indian squad established dominance early in the international fixture, commanding ball possession and dictating the tempo from the opening whistle. The initial breakthrough occurred during the 6th minute of play when India secured a penalty corner. Navneet Kaur executed a precise strike into the corner of the net to establish an early advantage.

Kaur doubled the lead 7 minutes later, capitalising on an accurate pass from captain Salima Tete to slip the ball past the Chilean goalkeeper. Deepika Sehrawat extended the scoreline to 3-0 in the 14th minute by successfully converting another penalty corner opportunity.

The offensive pressure persisted into the second period as Sehrawat scored her second goal just 4 minutes later, giving India a 4-0 lead before the halftime whistle. The midfielder’s double selection elevated her individual tournament record to six goals, positioning her among the top scorers in the competition.

India maintained its high tactical intensity after the interval. Neha Goyal converted a penalty corner in the 32nd minute, advancing the score to 5-0 and demonstrating the squad’s clinical efficiency during set-piece scenarios.

Chile struggled to counter the sustained offensive pressure from the Indian frontline. Rutuja Dadaso Pisal scored the sixth and final goal in the 39th minute, utilizing an innovative reverse hit from open play to complete the comprehensive victory.

While the forward line controlled the offensive third, goalkeeper Savita Punia and the backline remained organized. The defense prevented Chile from creating significant scoring opportunities, with Punia securing a clean sheet through the final 15 minutes of play.

Future Outlook

Following this semifinal victory, India transitions to the championship match of the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2025-26. The squad will compete for the title against the winner of the second semifinal matchup featuring the United States and tournament hosts New Zealand. A victory in the final will secure crucial international standing and validate the team’s developmental trajectory under current leadership.

FAQs

What was the final score of the India vs Chile semifinal match?

India defeated Chile with a definitive 6-0 scoreline to advance to the tournament final.

Who was named Player of the Match?

Captain Salima Tete received the Player of the Match award for her outstanding all-round performance and leadership on the field.

How many goals has Deepika Sehrawat scored in the tournament?

Deepika Sehrawat has scored a total of six goals in the tournament after netting a brace during the semifinal match against Chile.

Who will India face in the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup final?

India will play the winner of the second semifinal match held between the United States and the host nation, New Zealand.