India’s wait for a place in the semi-finals of the Women’s Hockey World Cup goes on.
A victory was the only result that would have taken the Women in Blue into the last four, but Australia held them to a goalless draw, ending India’s campaign at the quarter-final stage.
India had not reached a World Cup semi-final since the inaugural edition in 1974, when they finished fourth. Since then, their only other top-eight finish came in 2018. The opportunity was there this time, but Australia proved difficult to break down.
Australia thought they had taken the lead inside the opening two minutes when Grace Stewart found the net from close range. India immediately referred the decision, claiming the attempt was dangerous, and the review went in their favour. The goal was ruled out.
Australia enjoyed more possession during the opening quarter, but India remained compact and looked to threaten on the counter. Neither side could create a clear opening before the first break.
India had opportunities as the game progressed, but the final pass or finish was missing. A promising move involving Navneet Kaur and Neha eventually broke down, while a late penalty corner in the second quarter came to nothing.
Australia came close again in the third quarter. Savita made an important save from the top of the circle before Australia appeared to have finally broken the deadlock. However, the goal was overturned after a review found that the ball had struck an Indian defender’s arm, with the contact deemed dangerous.
India had their moments too.
Deepika had an opportunity from the centre but could not get a clean connection, while another promising move involving Navneet and Lalremsiami failed to produce a shot.
With time running out, India went all out. They removed their goalkeeper and brought on an additional outfield player, hoping to find the goal that would keep their semi-final hopes alive.
Instead, Australia increased the pressure. India’s defence was forced into desperate blocks and clearances, with Bichu Devi making a crucial save and the first rusher repeatedly throwing herself in front of Australian penalty-corner attempts.
Australia won another penalty corner late in the game with India defending without a goalkeeper. Salima Tete made a brave charge to stop the drag-flick, and Australia’s referral did not overturn the decision.
The final whistle confirmed India’s fate. Australia managed the closing moments smartly and secured the result they needed to progress.
India’s World Cup run is over, while Australia and the Netherlands advance to the semi-finals. India will now play for fifth place.
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