Overview
- India defeated hosts New Zealand 2-0 in the final on Sunday with early goals from Navneet Kaur (4') and Sunelita Toppo (15') to claim the Nations Cup title.
- The win capped an unbeaten tournament run that included topping Pool A and a 6-0 semi-final victory over Chile.
- Deepika finished as joint-top scorer with six goals while Lalremsiami was named Player of the Match in the final and goalkeeper Savita and the defence kept a clean sheet.
- The Nations Cup victory secures India promotion back to the FIH Pro League for 2026–27, a step that also affects the team's pathway to LA 2028 Olympic qualification.
- Hockey India announced cash rewards for the squad and support staff, and the title is being framed as a key milestone in coach Sjoerd Marijne’s rebuilding programme that will bring tougher regular opponents and greater exposure.