Both teams pushed hard for a winner, but the defining moment came when the USA earned a penalty stroke. With the home crowd holding their breath, FIH Goalkeeper of the Year Grace O’Hanlon produced a massive save to deny the Americans and keep the scores level.
The match headed to a shootout, where the Black Sticks were clinical. New Zealand converted all four of their attempts, while O’Hanlon delivered another masterclass, making three saves to secure a 4-1 shootout victory and send the home crowd into celebration.
India were dominant in the other semi-final against Chile, scoring six unanswered goals to stroll into the final.
The final takes place at 6.30pm at North Harbour National Hockey Centre.