A SHOOTOUT MASTERCLASS FROM THE VANTAGE BLACK STICKS WOMEN

​The Vantage Black Sticks Women are through to the final of the 2026 FIH Women’s Nations Cup after defeating the USA in a dramatic shootout at a packed North Harbour National Hockey Centre.

The night was made even more special as captain Olivia Shannon celebrated her 100th international cap. Debuting in 2019 at just 17 years old, Shannon has quickly become one of New Zealand hockey's leaders and was cheered on by a passionate home crowd.

The first half was a fierce contest with both teams creating chances, but neither side could break the deadlock as the match remained 0-0 at halftime.

USA struck first in the third quarter through a penalty corner, but the Vantage Black Sticks responded almost immediately. Hannah Cotter finished a beautifully worked penalty corner variation to level the scores at 1-1 and set up a tense final quarter.

Both teams pushed hard for a winner, but the defining moment came when the USA earned a penalty stroke. With the home crowd holding their breath, FIH Goalkeeper of the Year Grace O'Hanlon produced a massive save to deny the Americans and keep the scores level.

The match headed to a shootout, where the Vantage Black Sticks were clinical. New Zealand converted all four of their attempts, while O'Hanlon delivered another masterclass, making three saves to secure a 4-1 shootout victory and send the home crowd into celebration.

The Vantage Black Sticks Women now advance to the gold medal match where they will face India at 6:30pm NZT tomorrow at North Harbour National Hockey Centre.

The dream of going back-to-back Nations Cup champions is still alive.

New Zealand Goal Scorers:

35' Hannah Cotter - Penalty Corner Goal