India produced a dominant display to defeat Wales 4–1 in the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup Qualifiers, strengthening their campaign and moving a step closer to the tournament title. The hosts delivered an attacking masterclass, with Navneet Kaur leading the charge through a sensational hat-trick, while Sakshi Rana added another goal to seal the convincing victory. The win also ensured India finished strongly in Pool B and continued their push toward the 2026 Women’s Hockey World Cup.

Navneet Kaur’s Hat-trick powers India to a dominant win

India started the match on the front foot and took an early lead when Sakshi Rana scored in the seventh minute, giving the hosts a perfect start. Navneet Kaur then took control of the contest with three goals, striking in the 29th, 34th and 55th minutes to put the result beyond doubt.

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Wales managed to pull one goal back through Betsan Thomas in the third quarter, but the Indian team remained firmly in control throughout the game. Navneet eventually completed her hat-trick with a penalty stroke late in the match, sealing a comprehensive 4–1 victory for the hosts.

India Eye qualifiers title after securing World Cup spot

The win not only confirmed India’s strong finish in the group stage but also secured their qualification for the upcoming FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup scheduled to be held in Belgium and the Netherlands later this year.

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Having already ensured a place in the semifinals, India now turn their focus to lifting the qualifiers title. The team is set to face Italy in the semifinals as they continue their quest for silverware after an impressive run in the tournament.