PTC Web Desk: India’s campaign at the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup came to an end after the Indian women’s team played out a draw against Australia in Amstelveen, Netherlands.

The result was enough for Australia to secure a place in the semifinals, with the team advancing on the basis of a better goal difference. India needed a win to keep its World Cup campaign alive, while Australia only had to avoid defeat.

The match followed the Netherlands’ 4-1 victory over China, which left India and Australia fighting for the final semi-final spot.

India pushes for a goal

India started the match with attacking intent but could not find the breakthrough.

Australia appeared to have taken an early lead when a close-range effort struck Jyoti and went towards the goal. However, after India requested a review, the TV umpire ruled the incident as dangerous play and the goal was not allowed.

India then got an important opportunity through a penalty corner before half-time. However, Australia’s defence stood firm and kept the Indian attack away from the goal.

Nikki also had a chance to score, but she could not make proper contact with the ball.

Australia’s defence holds firm

India continued to look for a winning goal but struggled to break through Australia’s organised defence. With the clock running down, the pressure increased on the Indian side, as only a victory could have taken them into the semifinals. Australia, meanwhile, focused on protecting the result it needed to progress. The final result left India out of the tournament, while Australia moved into the last four.

India’s world cup journey

India began its World Cup campaign with draws against China and England before producing an impressive 6-1 win over South Africa to move into the second round.

However, a 0-2 defeat against the Netherlands made the next stage more difficult. India eventually needed a win against Australia but could manage only a draw, bringing its World Cup journey to an end.

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