Women’s Hockey WC: Argentina stun Netherlands in shootout to win third title

In a thrilling World Cup final, Argentina's women's hockey team stunned world No. 1 and three-time defending champions Netherlands by winning the title for the third time. The match took place at Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen, with Argentina emerging victorious in a shoot-out after a 1-1 draw at the end of regulation time. Goalkeeper Cristina Cosentino was the standout player, making crucial saves, including during the shoot-out, to secure Argentina's triumph.

This marked the first time since 2010 that the Dutch women lost a World Cup final, and it was their first defeat since 2010, when Argentina had previously won the title in 2002. Despite losing the 2022 final, the Dutch team appeared resolute, taking the lead in the 30th minute through Yibbi Jansen from a penalty corner. However, Argentina refused to capitulate, pushing forward and creating numerous penalty corner opportunities.

The turning point came in the 54th minute when Agustina Gorzelany's shot from a penalty corner fell to Maria Granatto, who scored the equalizing goal. In the subsequent shoot-out, Argentina triumphed with goals from Zoe Diaz, Victoria Granatto, and Sofia Cairo, while Netherlands' Pien Sanders, Felice Albers, and Freeke Moes all missed their attempts.

Earlier, the match was a closely contested affair, with neither team creating many clear-cut chances. Pien Dicke nearly broke the deadlock for the Dutch late in the first quarter, but Cosentino held firm. Jansen gave the Dutch the lead in the second quarter, but Argentina's relentless determination ultimately paid off, resulting in Argentina's third World Cup title.