Scotland's women's hockey team secured a place in the FIH Hockey World Cup for the first time since 2002 with a 1-0 victory over Italy in a tense play-off match in Hyderabad, India. Amy Costello's early penalty corner strike in the bottom right corner proved decisive, giving Scotland the lead they would not relinquish.

Scotland dominated the opening quarter and created several chances, with Katherine Holdgate coming close to doubling the lead late in the period. The second quarter saw Fiona Burnet nearly extend the advantage after a precise pass from Heather McEwan, but her effort missed narrowly. Costello almost added a second with another drag flick that sailed just wide.

The second half featured continued Scottish pressure, though Italy's best chance came in the third quarter when Federica Carta's powerful drag flick was brilliantly saved by Jess Buchanan. The victory marks Scotland's return to the global stage after a 22-year absence.

Scotland captain Sarah Robertson described the achievement as 'incredible,' noting the team is still processing the significance of qualifying for the tournament that will take place in Belgium and Netherlands in August.