Bronze for New Zealand's men's hockey side
- 44 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The Black Sticks Men have finished their 2026 FIH Nations Cup campaign with bronze medals after defeating Japan 3-1 in Cape Town, South Africa.
The occasion was made even more special as Isaac Houlbrooke celebrated his 50th international cap for New Zealand, reaching the milestone in another memorable moment for his career.
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Japan made the brighter start, scoring inside the opening four minutes to take an early lead. The Black Sticks fought hard to respond and found the equaliser just before halftime, with Sam Lane finishing off a brilliant attacking move after being set up by Dylan Thomas.
The second half was a tense battle, with both sides creating chances but unable to break the deadlock. With the match still locked at 1-1 and less than five minutes remaining, New Zealand found another gear.
Jonty Elmes put the kiwis ahead with a superb field goal before James Hickson sealed the result moments later with another classy finish, securing a 3-1 victory and the bronze medal.
While the team will be disappointed not to have reached a third consecutive Nations Cup final, there is still plenty to celebrate. New Zealand depar Cape Town with valuable experience against World Cup opposition, and confidence heading into the next phase of their 2026 World Cup preparations.
New Zealand Goal Scorers:
27' Sam Lane - Field Goal
56' Jonty Elmes - Field Goal
57' James Hickson - Field Goal
