Auckland, Newzealand, June 16: India secured a place in the semi-finals of the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2026 after defeating Japan 2-1 in their second Pool A match at the North Harbour National Hockey Centre in Auckland on Tuesday.
Captain Salima Tete and Lalremsiami scored for India, while Hiramitsu Ai netted the lone goal for Japan. The match also marked a significant milestone for Indian midfielder Jyoti, who made her 100th senior international appearance.
The opening half witnessed a closely contested battle, with both teams creating opportunities but failing to find the back of the net before the break.
India took the lead in the 33rd minute through a well-worked penalty corner variation. Navneet Kaur’s strike was redirected by Nikki Pradhan towards Salima Tete, who finished the move to put India ahead.
Japan responded quickly and levelled the score two minutes later when Hiramitsu Ai converted a penalty corner in the 35th minute.
With the contest evenly poised, India regained the lead in the final quarter. In the 49th minute, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam delivered a pass from the edge of the circle to Lalremsiami, who deflected the ball into the net to restore India’s advantage.
India maintained their lead for the remainder of the match to register their second consecutive victory in the tournament, following their opening win over the United States.
The result takes India to the top of Pool A with six points and confirms their place in the semi-finals.
India will face Uruguay in their final Pool A fixture on June 18, while Japan and the United States will compete for the remaining semi-final berth from the group.