Hockeyroos open World Cup campaign with victory over Japan

The Hockeyroos have made the perfect start to their 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup campaign, defeating Japan 2-0 in a hard-fought opening encounter.

In a tight contest where opportunities were difficult to come by, Hockeyroos co-captain Claire Colwill proved the difference, scoring twice from penalty corners to secure all three points and earn Player of the Match honours.

Australia started brightly and controlled periods of the opening quarter, creating several opportunities in attack, but a disciplined Japanese defence stood firm. The Hockeyroos continued to push for the breakthrough and earned the first penalty corner of the match with just 13 seconds remaining in the opening term, but were unable to convert as the teams went to quarter-time locked at 0-0.

The arm wrestle continued into the second quarter, with Japan making it difficult for Australia to find clear space inside the attacking circle. With three minutes remaining before half-time, the Hockeyroos finally found the breakthrough.

After earning another penalty corner, Colwill stepped up and delivered, finding the back of the net to hand Australia a crucial 1-0 advantage heading into the main break. Japan continued to challenge the Hockeyroos after half-time, with the third quarter developing into another tight tussle as both sides battled for control.

Neither team was able to add to the scoreboard during the third term, leaving Australia with a slender one-goal advantage heading into the final 15 minutes.

With the result still in the balance, Colwill again delivered from a penalty corner in the fourth quarter.
With nine-and-a-half minutes remaining, the co-captain struck for her second goal of the match, doubling Australia's advantage and providing some breathing room heading into the closing stages.

From there, the Hockeyroos remained composed, keeping Japan scoreless and seeing out the contest to secure a 2-0 victory and an important three points to begin their World Cup campaign.
Colwill's match-winning double saw her named Player of the Match, capping an impressive opening performance from the Australian co-captain.

The victory gives the Hockeyroos a strong platform as they now prepare for the Netherlands on Tuesday from 2am AEST. Catch it live and free on 7plus.

FULL TIME: Australia 2–0 Japan
Goals: Claire Colwill (27th Minute PC, 51st Minute PC)