Netherlands, Argentina march into Women’s Hockey World Cup final 2026

 


The 2026 FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup semi-finals produced two gripping, low-scoring contests on Thursday, with defending champions the Netherlands and two-time champions Argentina emerging victorious to set up a repeat of the 2022 World Cup final. 


Netherlands 1–0 Belgium

In a tense all-European battle at the Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen, the Netherlands edged co-hosts Belgium 1–0 to reach their eighth consecutive World Cup final. The decisive goal came from Frédérique Matla in the 28th minute, giving the Dutch a narrow lead that they defended resolutely for the remainder of the contest. 


Belgium pushed hard for an equaliser, particularly late in the match. 18-year-old Famke van Heel appeared to have restored parity with a fierce strike, but the goal was overturned following a review. The Dutch defence survived the late pressure to preserve a precious clean sheet. 


The victory underlined the Netherlands' remarkable consistency. The reigning champions are now chasing a fourth successive World Cup title and a record-extending 10th crown. 


Argentina 1–0 Australia

Argentina then produced another disciplined performance at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre, defeating Australia 1–0 in an absorbing second semi-final. Julieta Jankunas scored the decisive goal early in the fourth quarter from a penalty-corner routine, sending Las Leonas into another World Cup final. 


The first half was remarkably even, with both teams recording only five circle entries apiece and earning one penalty corner each. Neither side could break the deadlock, while Argentina goalkeeper Cristina Cosentino made an important intervention to keep Australia scoreless. 


Argentina's persistence finally paid off in the final quarter. Jankunas' crucial penalty-corner finish proved enough as the South Americans protected their slender advantage to complete a hard-fought victory.

A blockbuster final awaits

The result sets up a mouth-watering Netherlands–Argentina final on Saturday, a repeat of the 2022 World Cup final, when the Dutch defeated Las Leonas 3–1. Argentina have now reached their seventh World Cup final, having won two of their previous six, while the Netherlands are seeking an extraordinary 10th World Cup title. 


The final therefore promises a compelling clash between the tournament's dominant force and a determined Argentine side that has once again battled its way onto the biggest stage.

Semi-final results

Netherlands 1–0 Belgium — Frédérique Matla 28'

Argentina 1–0 Australia — Julieta Jankunas, fourth quarter

Final: Netherlands vs Argentina, Saturday, August 29 


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