Chile's goalkeeper proud of team's fight in World Cup debut loss to Netherlands

Chile's national field hockey team, Las Diablas, began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a challenging 2-0 defeat against host nation and top-ranked Netherlands. Despite the loss, goalkeeper Natalia Salvador highlighted the team's full commitment and fight throughout the match.

"We gave it our all, that was our objective, to take care of every detail. It didn't happen for us, two small details cost us the result," Salvador stated after the game. She acknowledged the Netherlands as the current best team globally but expressed satisfaction with Chile's performance. "We are fighting against the best in the world. Little by little, we are showing that we can reach them, but obviously, we know there is still work to do."

Salvador also paid tribute to Claudia Schüler, the national team's former goalkeeper who played in the previous World Cup. "We played the World Cup last year here with her: same hotel, same field. It has been difficult, but remembering her, keeping her more present than ever, gives us extra support and motivation," she said. Salvador had prepared intensely for the match, anticipating numerous shots on goal and training rigorously.

"I'm happy because I think we defended very well as a team. The credit also goes to my teammates, we were a wall," Salvador added, expressing pride in playing before a full stadium with many Chilean flags. Looking ahead to upcoming matches against Japan and Australia, she emphasized their importance as "two finals" for advancing in the group stage. She concluded by thanking fans for their support, which she felt even from a distance, stating, "We do it all for you, to make Chile the best and for you to be proud of us."