India stormed into the final of the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup in Auckland with a commanding 6-0 victory over Chile in the semi-finals on Saturday.
Navneet Kaur struck twice in the opening minutes, scoring in the 6th and 13th minutes. Captain Salima Tete set up her second goal with a brilliant run and cross. Deepika extended the lead with two penalty corner goals in the 14th and 18th minutes, taking her tally to six in the tournament and topping the goal-scorers’ chart.
India entered halftime with a 4-0 cushion and continued their dominance in the second half. Neha converted another penalty corner in the 32nd minute, while Rutuja Dadaso Pisal added the sixth goal in the 39th minute with a reverse hit from open play.
Goalkeeper Savita made crucial saves in the final quarter to deny Chile any chance of scoring. India maintained control until the final whistle, sealing their fourth consecutive win in the tournament.
Salima Tete was named Player of the Match for her all-round performance. India will face the winner of the second semi-final between the USA and hosts New Zealand in the title clash.
