The Indian Women’s Hockey team’s FIH World Cup journey ended in a goalless draw against Australia, leading to their elimination from the prestigious tournament.
Photograph: Hockey India/X
Key Points
- India was eliminated from the FIH Women’s World Cup after a goalless draw against Australia.
- Australia advanced to the semifinals due to scoring more goals in the second round.
- India needed a victory against Australia to secure a semifinal spot.
- The Indian team had an unbeaten run in the group stage before a crucial loss to the Netherlands.
- Despite creating opportunities, India’s offence could not breach Australia’s defence.
India crashed out of the FIH Women’s World Cup after being held to a goalless draw by Australia in their final second-round match in Amstelveen, The Netherlands, on Sunday.
The result sent the Hockeyroos into the semifinals on the basis of more goals scored.
With the Netherlands having knocked China out with a 4-1 win earlier in the day, it was a straight shootout between India and Australia for the semifinal spot.
India needed a win, while Australia only had to avoid defeat to progress, having scored more goals than their opponents.
Match Highlights and Elimination
India survived an early scare when Australia appeared to take the lead through a close-range effort that struck Jyoti high on her body before deflecting into the net.
India immediately took a referral, and the TV umpire ruled the play dangerous, preserving the goalless scoreline.
India had a golden opportunity to break the deadlock just before half-time after winning a penalty corner, but Australia read their routine and snuffed out the threat.
Nikki Pradhan found space but failed to connect cleanly with her shot, completely missing the ball before it struck her foot.
India’s Desperate Pursuit for Goal
India pressed for the goal they desperately needed but could not find a way through a resolute Australian defence.
The draw was enough for Australia to seal the final semifinal spot, while India’s semifinal hopes were dashed.
India had begun their campaign unbeaten, drawing against China and England before thrashing South Africa 6-1 to advance to the second round.
However, a 0-2 defeat to the Netherlands in their previous match left the hosts needing victory against Australia to stay in contention.
