MATCH ONE VS JAPAN - MEN’S NATIONS CUP 2025

15 June 2025 – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Our Vantage Black Sticks opened their Nation’s Cup tournament campaign in style with a hard-fought 2–1 win over Japan in stormy conditions at the Malaysia National Hockey Stadium.

After more than an hour delay due to thunder and lightning, the match finally got underway at 7:15pm local time. Japan struck early with a goal on the counterattack, but New Zealand responded well. Sam Hiha found the back of the net to level things up 1–1 at the end of the first quarter.

Simon Yorston made a key save on the post from a Japanese penalty corner, and New Zealand nearly went ahead with a golden chance late in the quarter.

The second quarter saw New Zealand take control, with 13 circle entries to Japan’s two. Nic Woods came close from a penalty corner, only to be denied by a brilliant save on the post. At the other end, Dom Dixon made a big stop to keep things level. Despite strong pressure and a couple more chances, the score remained 1–1 at halftime.

Another lightning delay extended the break by 20 minutes, pushing the total match delay to over 90 minutes.

The third quarter followed a similar pattern, with New Zealand dominating possession and territory but unable to convert their chances.

In a tight final quarter, the Black Sticks continued to push. Their persistence paid off in the final four minutes, when Dylan Thomas deflected home the match-winner. Thomas was also named Player of the Match for his performance.

The win sees New Zealand take all three points and move to the top of Pool B.

A special mention to Gus Nelson and Finn Ward, who both made strong contributions on debut. Unfortunately, Louis Beckert didn’t get the chance to take the field for his debut this time.

Tune in tonight at 12am on TVNZ+ to watch the Vantage Black Sticks Men take on the host team, Malaysia.