BOTH MEN AND WOMEN QUALIFY FOR THE WORLD CUP
The Vantage Black Sticks Women have secured their place at the 2026 FIH World Cup after a thrilling shootout victory over Australia in the deciding match of the 2025 Oceania Cup in Darwin.
After winning the first match 1–0 and losing the second 0–1, it all came down to last night’s decider.
Australia started the stronger side, dominating much of the first half with a flurry of circle entries, penalty corners and attacking pressure. Their persistence was rewarded with a goal in the second quarter, giving them a 0–1 lead at halftime.
But the second half told a different story. New Zealand regrouped and came out with renewed energy and intent, creating more flow, better connections, and several key opportunities. Despite Australia continuing to press hard, goalkeeper Grace O’Hanlon stood tall with crucial saves, while the defensive unit held firm under immense pressure.
The breakthrough came in the final quarter when Jessie Anderson deflected home from a penalty corner to level the scores at 1–1 with just five minutes to play. New Zealand held their nerve to take the match into a shoot-out, where the drama reached its peak.
Olivia Shannon opened the scoring after being awarded a penalty stroke, before Grace O’Hanlon denied Australia’s first attempt. Hannah Cotter, Riana Pho, and Josephine Murray all converted, and when Emma Findlay was fouled by the goalkeeper in the final round, Shannon stepped up once more. With a place at the World Cup on the line, she calmly slotted home to seal an unforgettable victory. New Zealand scoring all five of their shoot-outs to win the Oceania Cup and book their ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
This triumph is even more remarkable considering the youth and inexperience of the side, featuring just one player with over 100 caps and two with more than 50. Against one of hockey’s powerhouses, the Black Sticks Women delivered a result that will be remembered for years to come.
The Vantage Black Sticks Men, despite already being unable to claim the series after earlier results, started strongly in their final match, with Sam Lane opening the scoring in the first minute. However, Australia responded with four unanswered goals to take a 1–4 win.
While the series did not go their way, the Vantage Black Sticks Men have also booked their place at the 2026 FIH World Cup, as Australia had already qualified through the FIH Pro League.
With both teams now officially qualified for the 2026 FIH World Cup, the 2025 Oceania Cup will be remembered as a pivotal moment for Hockey New Zealand. For the Women’s team in particular, this victory marks a milestone in their journey. Proof that a young, developing group can compete with the very best and come out on top when it matters most.