BRONZE FOR THE VANTAGE BLACK STICKS MEN AT THE 2026 FIH NATIONS CUP

The Vantage Black Sticks Men have finished their 2026 FIH Nations Cup campaign with bronze medals after defeating Japan 3-1 in Cape Town, South Africa.

The occasion was made even more special as Isaac Houlbrooke celebrated his 50th international cap for New Zealand, reaching the milestone in another memorable moment for his career.

Japan made the brighter start, scoring inside the opening four minutes to take an early lead. The Vantage Black Sticks fought hard to respond and found the equaliser just before halftime, with Sam Lane finishing off a brilliant attacking move after being set up by Dylan Thomas.

The second half was a tense battle, with both sides creating chances but unable to break the deadlock. With the match still locked at 1-1 and less than five minutes remaining, New Zealand found another gear.

Jonty Elmes put the Vantage Black Sticks ahead with a superb field goal before James Hickson sealed the result moments later with another classy finish, securing a 3-1 victory and the bronze medal.

While the team will be disappointed not to have reached a third consecutive Nations Cup final, there is still plenty to celebrate. The Vantage Black Sticks leave Cape Town with silverware, valuable experience against World Cup opposition, and confidence heading into the next phase of their 2026 World Cup preparations.

Throughout the tournament the team showed resilience, attacking flair and the true spirit of the black shirt. With the World Cup now on the horizon, the future is an exciting one for this group.

New Zealand Goal Scorers:

27' Sam Lane - Field Goal

56' Jonty Elmes - Field Goal

57' James Hickson - Field Goal