USWNT wins 3 Nations Tournament beating host New Zealand 2-1: field hockey
The USWNT are preparing for the 2026 World Cup and have started the year with a successful tournament, featuring the depth of the current roster.
The No. 11 U.S. Women’s National Field Hockey Team won the 3 Nations Tournament with a 2-1 victory over No. 9 New Zealand in a tightly contested final.
“Really delighted to win in difficult conditions, but to be six for six on tour, including our two practice games, is quite an achievement,” USWNT head coach David Passmore said in a statement.
The United Eagles secured the decisive goal late in the third quarter and withstood a relentless attack from the host nation — New Zealand Black Sticks — to claim the championship.
USA started quickly, earning a penalty corner just 30 seconds into the match. While they were unable to convert, the United Eagles produced several circle entries and shots in the opening frame, including a dangerous backhand from Ryleigh Heck.
In the sixth minute, New Zealand was awarded a penalty stroke after the ball struck a defender behind goalkeeper Kelsey Bing. Bing read the play correctly and made the save to keep the game scoreless.
6' What a stop for Bing ❌ pic.twitter.com/0ep8ktdTKT
— USA Field Hockey (@USAFieldHockey) January 25, 2026
In the second quarter, USA remained the more threatening team while maintaining a disciplined defense. One minute before halftime, a left side passing sequence from Lucy Adams to Beth Yeager set up Abby Tamer, who touched the ball in to give the States a 1-0 lead.
Bing provided two additional clutch saves — one nearing halftime on a close-range shot and another on a penalty corner in the final minute of the half.
Two minutes into the third quarter, New Zealand’s Hannah Cotter leveled the score at 1-1 with a high reverse shot. However, the States took the lead again with two minutes remaining in the period when Phia Gladieux tipped in a shot from Heck at back post.
Fourth quarter friction was felt as New Zealand applied pressure in search of an equalizer.
Despite a disallowed goal and continued threats from the Black Sticks, the States backfield held firm for the victory.
“We knew New Zealand would come out strong and they played with good tempo but our speed on the counter was a continual threat,” Passmore said. “While New Zealand had more possession, our defensive effort limited their circle entries.”
Areas of teamwork growth were notable, Passmore said. They have been working on tactical scoring efforts that were executed in the final match.
43' Heck of a shot is tipped in by Gladieux! pic.twitter.com/fHk9rzouhQ
— USA Field Hockey (@USAFieldHockey) January 25, 2026
“That said, you always need goalkeepers in form and Kelsey Bing’s penalty stroke save kept us level early on,” Passmore said. “This result demonstrates the progress the group has made and with a strong squad left at home, how the program is developing overall.”
The match was Maddie Zimmer’s 75th.
The USWNT will host No. 15 Chile in Charlotte, N.C. from February 10 to 15 for four unsanctioned matches.
Final (Jan 24): USA 2-1 New Zealand
Match 3 (Jan 23): USA 4-1 New Zealand A
Match 2 (Jan 22): USA 4-0 Japan
Match 1 (Jan 20): USA 2-1 New Zealand
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