New Delhi: India’s women’s hockey team ended its 2026 World Cup campaign with a fifth place finish in Amstelveen, its best result at the tournament since 1974. The achievement marked a major step forward for Indian hockey, although the team was left wondering how far it could have gone after narrowly missing out on a semi final spot.
Ranked ninth in the world, India signed off with an impressive 3-1 victory over fifth ranked Germany. The result capped a campaign in which India lost only once, against defending champions and world number one Netherlands.
India began the tournament with a 2-2 draw against China before producing a record breaking 6-1 victory over South Africa. The team then held England to a goalless draw, a result that helped India progress to the next stage.
The biggest challenge came against the Netherlands. India suffered a 2-0 defeat against the hosts, leaving the team needing a positive result against Australia to keep its semi final hopes alive.
India battled hard but could not break through Australia’s defence as the match ended 0-0. The result sent Australia into the semi finals and pushed India into the battle for fifth place.
The players finished strongly, defeating Germany 3-1. Navneet scored twice in the match, but the striker was visibly emotional afterwards, reflecting on the missed opportunity against Australia. She felt India had produced its best hockey too late in the tournament.
Former captain and goalkeeper Savita Punia echoed that sentiment while also looking ahead. The team’s next major objective is the 2026 Asian Games, where winning gold would secure direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
India’s defensive organisation and goalkeeping were among the biggest positives. Savita Punia and Bichu Devi shared responsibilities in goal, while captain Salima Tete impressed with her defensive contribution during penalty corners.
The fifth place finish provides India with renewed confidence and a clear mission: win Asian Games gold and return to the Olympic stage in 2028.
