India Women’s Hockey Team defeated Uruguay 3-2 in their final Pool A match at the FIH Nations Cup in Auckland, maintaining an unbeaten record and securing the top spot in the group.
Uruguay struck first in the 13th minute through Chiara Appennino’s penalty corner. India responded with resilience as drag-flicker Deepika converted a penalty corner in the 24th minute to level the score. After halftime, India intensified their attack and Deepika Soreng netted a fine field goal in the 43rd minute to give India a 2-1 lead.
Uruguay captain Manuela Vilar equalised in the 55th minute, setting up a tense finish. India answered immediately when Deepika converted her second penalty corner in the 56th minute, sealing the 3-2 victory.
The win marked India’s third consecutive triumph after earlier victories against USA and Japan, ensuring they topped Pool A. USA joined India in the semi-finals as runners-up.
The match also carried special significance for midfielder Neha, who celebrated her 200th senior international appearance, a milestone applauded by teammates and fans alike.
With three straight wins, India enters the semi-finals brimming with confidence as they chase the Nations Cup title and a return to the FIH Pro League. They are likely to face Chile or Korea in the semi-final scheduled for June 20.
