Amstelveen, Aug 24:
India’s women’s hockey team crashed out of the Hockey World Cup after being held to a goalless draw by Australia in Amstelveen, with the Hockeyroos advancing to the semi-finals on the basis of more goals scored in the tournament.
India, needing a win to progress, fought hard but could not break the deadlock despite throwing everything forward in the final quarter. Both teams finished level on two points and a goal difference of minus two, but Australia went through after scoring three goals in the tournament to India’s two.
India had a chance to recreate the magic of the Tokyo Olympics, where they stunned Australia 1-0 in the quarter-finals to reach their maiden Olympic semi-final. This time, however, there was no repeat as the final whistle ended their World Cup campaign.
Australia dominated possession early, but India’s defence stood firm. Two Australian goals were overturned following referrals for dangerous play, while the Indian goalkeepers and defenders produced crucial interventions. India also created opportunities but failed to convert their chances.
In the final minutes, India withdrew goalkeeper Bichu Devi for an additional outfield player in a desperate search for the winning goal. Yet Australia held on, while India’s defence also survived late penalty corners.
The result extended India’s wait for a Women’s World Cup semi-final. The team last reached the last four in 1974, when it finished fourth.