The Argentine women's field hockey team drew 1-1 during regulation time against the Netherlands and won 3-1 in penalties to lift the trophy again after an undefeated campaign
The team led by Fernando Ferrara had a performance of character and defensive solidity throughout the tournament. Argentina began its journey with a 1-1 draw against the United States and then achieved victories against Germany, 3-2, and Scotland, 2-0.
In the second phase, Las Leonas defeated Spain 3-0 and drew 0-0 against Belgium, a result that allowed them to finish first in their group and advance to the semifinals.
One of the main arguments of the Argentine team was its defensive performance, with Cristina “la China” Cosentino as one of the key players between the posts.
In the semifinals, Argentina faced Australia in a tight and highly intense match. After three quarters without goals, Julieta Jankunas scored the definitive 1-0 two minutes into the last period, following a set play from a short corner involving Agustina Gorzelany and Sofía Cairo. The Argentine defense held firm until the end and secured a spot in the decisive match.
Las Leonas turned the final against the Netherlands
The final against the Netherlands once again pushed the Argentine team to the limit. The Dutch took a 1-0 lead at the end of the second quarter, but Argentina did not lose control of the match and continued to seek the equalizer.
The equalizer came in the last period. María José Granatto took advantage of a rebound from a short corner and scored to make it 1-1, a result that took the final to penalty shootouts.
In the penalty shootout from 23 meters, Argentina showed greater effectiveness and ended up winning 3-1. Sofía Cairo converted the last penalty and sparked the celebration of Las Leonas, who reclaimed the highest international title.
The championship also had historical significance: Argentina achieved its third World Cup, after the titles won in Perth 2002 and Rosario 2010. In all three victories, the Netherlands was on the other side in the final.
With this new triumph, Las Leonas stand alone as the second highest world champions, behind the Netherlands, which has nine titles. Germany and Australia complete the historical podium with two championships each.
Additionally, several Argentinians were recognized individually. Zoe Díaz, 20 years old, was named the best young player of the World Cup, while the Dutch Yibbi Jansen finished as the top scorer, with eight goals. Belgian Charlotte Englebert was honored as the best player of the tournament and Australian Jocelyn Bartram received the award for best goalkeeper.
