Auckland, June 16: India triumphed over Japan 2-1 in their second Pool ‘A’ match of the FIH Women’s Nations Cup 2026 on Tuesday, securing a spot in the semifinals. With this victory, India has won both of its pool matches so far.
The match took place at the North Harbour National Hockey Centre in Auckland. Captain Salima Tete, who was named ‘Player of the Match’, scored in the 33rd minute, followed by Lalremsiami’s goal in the 49th minute. Japan’s only goal came from AE Hiramitsu in the 35th minute.
Midfielder Jyoti made her mark by playing in her 100th senior international match. The first half was tightly contested, with both teams creating opportunities, but neither could break the deadlock before halftime.
Excitement surged in the third quarter when India scored its first goal from a penalty corner in the 33rd minute. Navneet Kaur’s shot was expertly passed to Salima by Nikki Pradhan, who converted it into a goal, giving India the lead.
However, Japan quickly equalized just two minutes later, with Hiramitsu scoring from a penalty corner in the 35th minute.
In the final quarter, Lalremsiami clinched the victory for India with a goal in the 49th minute. Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam delivered a precise pass from the edge of the circle, allowing Lalremsiami to find the net and secure the win for India.
With this victory, India remains unbeaten and tops Pool ‘A’ with six points from wins against the USA and Japan. India will face Uruguay in their final tournament match on June 18, while Japan and the USA will compete for the second semifinal spot from Pool ‘A’.
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