Argentina dethrone Netherlands, clinch Women’s Hockey World Cup in shootout

Argentina ended the Netherlands’ decade-long dominance of women’s hockey, defeating the nine-time champions in a thrilling penalty shootout to win the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup.

The final ended 1-1 after 60 minutes, with Argentina then producing a 3-1 shootout victory to deny the Netherlands a fifth straight World Cup title.

The triumph was especially sweet for Argentina after back-to-back 3-1 defeats to the Netherlands in the 2022 World Cup final and Tokyo Olympics gold-medal match. This time, Las Leonas held their nerve to secure their third World Cup title, adding to their triumphs in 2002 and 2010.

The Netherlands made the stronger start and eventually broke the deadlock just before half-time. Star drag-flicker Yibbi Jansen converted the team’s first penalty corner in the final minute of the second quarter, scoring her eighth goal of the tournament.

Argentina responded with increasing pressure after the interval, repeatedly earning penalty corners but failing to beat goalkeeper Anne Veenendaal. Their persistence finally paid off in the 54th minute.

After Agustina Gorzelany’s flick was saved, Argentina captain Maria Granatto reacted quickest to the rebound and found the net to make it 1-1.

Neither team could produce a decisive goal in the remaining minutes, sending the final to a shootout.

Argentina proved more clinical from the spot. Victoria Granatto, Brisa Bruggesser and Sofia Cairo scored their attempts, while Zoe Diaz’s effort was ruled out after a referral. For the Netherlands, only Marijn Veen converted, with Pien Sanders and Felice Albers missing.

The result marked a stunning turnaround for Argentina, who had been beaten by the Netherlands in their previous two major finals. It also ended the Dutch side’s remarkable run of four consecutive World Cup titles.

The Netherlands had reached the final after narrowly defeating Belgium in the semi-finals, while Argentina edged Australia to book their place in the title clash. Belgium went on to beat Australia 1-0 and claim the bronze medal.