Pakistan to Face New Zealand in Hockey Nations Cup 2025 Final

News Desk

Kuala Lumpur: The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown as Pakistan take on New Zealand in the final of the 2025 Hockey Nations Cup, with not just the trophy but a coveted promotion to the FIH Pro League on the line.

Pakistan booked their place in the final after a thrilling shootout victory over France, while New Zealand edged out South Korea in another dramatic penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw in regular time.

The Black Sticks had taken an early 2-0 lead, but South Korea bounced back with two powerful penalty corner strikes to level the match. In the shootout, it was the calm precision of New Zealand’s attackers and the resilience of goalkeeper Dominic Dixon that clinched a narrow 4-3 win and a place in the final.

This decisive clash will also serve as a rematch of the two sides’ earlier Pool B encounter, where New Zealand staged a stunning comeback to defeat Pakistan 4-3 and finish as group leaders.

For Pakistan, the final represents an opportunity to reclaim past glory and signal a resurgence after years of inconsistency on the international stage. For New Zealand, it’s a chance to sustain their momentum and return to the elite tier of world hockey.

With both teams delivering some of the tournament’s most electrifying performances, the final promises to be a gripping contest—one that will determine not only the Nations Cup champion but also the next entrant into the prestigious FIH Pro League.