India beat New Zealand to lift the FIH Women’s Nations Cup

India has defeated defending champions New Zealand 2-0 in the final of the 2026 FIH Women's Nations Cup final in Auckland tonight.

Navneet Kaur and Sunelita Toppo scored in the first quarter with penalty corners to give Indians the lead at a packed North Harbour National Hockey Centre.

The remaining three quarters were more evenly matched between the ninth ranked Indians and the world number 10 Black Sticks women.

With this win, the Indian women have earned promotion back to Hockey Pro League's 2026-27 season after a year of relegation.

The tournament will also double up as a qualifier for Los Angeles Olympics scheduled to be held in 2028.

Indian captain Salima Tete said the team is proud of how they have played through the week and remained undefeated throughout.

In the final, the Indian team earned seven penalty corners to New Zealand's one.

While the Kiwis were their offensive best in the last quarter unleashing a barrage of attacks, Indian defence held its nerve, and the match ended with the 2-0 scoreline in favour of Indians.

New Zealand captain Olivia Shannon said it was a tough loss to India, but the visitors play a good game of hockey.

"[But] it's really incredible to have international hockey back in New Zealand," she said.

The United States defeated Chile 3-2 to earn a bronze medal earlier in the evening.