Amstelveen (Netherlands): The Indian women’s hockey team succumbed to the pressure of a must-win match and were knocked out of semi-final contention after playing out a goalless draw against Australia here on Saturday.
India needed a win to advance to the last four while a draw was enough for the Aussies to make it to the last four on the basis of more number of goals scored.
The goal difference for both teams stood identical at minus two but Australia had three strikes compared to India’s two. Both teams had drawn their opening Pool D match against China.
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 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 semi-final 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.
But a 0-2 defeat to the Netherlands in their previous match left the hosts needing victory against Australia.
