Amstelveen: India’s women’s hockey team were knocked out of the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup after their second-round match against Australia ended in a draw in Amstelveen, Netherlands.
The result saw Australia progress to the semi-finals on the basis of their superior goal difference, while India’s campaign came to an end.
India needed a win to secure the final semi-final spot, whereas Australia only needed to avoid defeat because of their better goal difference.
Earlier, the Netherlands had defeated China 4-1, setting up a direct contest between India and Australia for the remaining semi-final berth.
India create chances but fail to score
Australia appeared to have taken an early lead when a close-range effort struck Jyoti and went towards the Indian goal. However, following India’s referral, the TV umpire ruled the incident as dangerous play and the goal was disallowed.
India then had an opportunity to take the lead through a penalty corner before half-time, but Australia’s defence held firm. Nikki also had a chance but could not make proper contact with the ball.
India pushed hard for a decisive goal in the second half but were unable to break through Australia’s defence.
India had entered the second round after drawing against China and England and defeating South Africa 6-1. However, their 0-2 defeat to the Netherlands had made qualification more difficult.
With the draw against Australia, India were unable to secure the win they needed, bringing their World Cup campaign to an end.
