Record-holding nine-time champions Netherlands are dreaming of their fourth straight World Cup title after claiming a 1-0 close win against Belgium in the first Semi-final of the Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup 2026.
Frédérique Matla scored the only goal of the match in the 28th minute, as the field goal proved to be the decisive factor of the game.
It was a tight battle, where the hosts of the match edged the co-hosts of the tournament out. While there were no penalty strokes earned, the Netherlands secured two penalty corners, and Belgium earned four penalty corners, but all were unsuccessful in conversion.
Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 (1st Semi-Final): Netherlands Post-Match Status
Netherlands will play their eighth straight World Cup Final (1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026).
Netherlands will play their 14th World Cup Final (1974, 1978, 1981, 1983, 1986, 1990, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026).
Netherlands won the last three World Cups (2014, 2018, and 2022).
Netherlands hold the record with nine World Cup titles (1974, 1978, 1983, 1986, 1990, 2006, 2014, 2018, and 2022).
Netherlands have missed only two World Cup Finals (3rd in 1976 and 6th in 1994).
Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 (1st Semi-Final): Belgium Post-Match Status
Belgium played their second World Cup Semifinal.
Belgium first played the World Cup Semifinal in 1978, which they lost, and finished as the third-best team.
