The final of the 2025 Hockey Nations Cup is now set in Kuala Lumpur, where Pakistan will face New Zealand not only for the silverware but also for a coveted promotion to the elite FIH Pro League.
After Pakistan’s dramatic shootout win over France, the action continued in the second semifinal between the Black Sticks and South Korea, where another shootout was needed to determine the winner after the match finished 2-2.
A pair of early goals had given New Zealand a 2-0 cushion, but Korea, much like Pakistan had done against France, clawed their way back into the contest with two thunderous penalty corners to force the match into penalties.
There, the composure of New Zealand’s shooters and the steadiness of goalkeeper Dominic Dixon sealed their 4-3 win and booked their place in tonight’s final.
The Nations Cup final between Pakistan and New Zealand will be a rematch of their earlier Pool B match, where New Zealand earned a 4-3 comeback win to guarantee their place as the table-toppers.
For Pakistan, this is their chance to mark a turning point after years of inconsistency. For New Zealand, it’s about maintaining momentum and returning to the top tier. Both teams have already delivered some of the tournament’s best hockey. Now, only one will walk away with the trophy—and a ticket to the Pro League.