India Women's Hockey Draw vs Australia, Out of WC Semis

We didn't create enough chances: Indian women's hockey coach after draw vs Australia in WC clash

New Delhi, August 24

India's campaign at the FIH Women's Hockey World Cup ended heartbreakingly after a 0-0 draw against Australia saw them miss out on a semifinal berth on goals scored. India needed a victory to keep their hopes alive and reach the next round but were unable to find the breakthrough despite creating several promising opportunities. The two teams finished level on points and goal difference, but Australia secured the semifinal berth by virtue of having scored more goals during the tournament.

Speaking about their team's performance on his X handle, Marijne said, "If you are this close you always want more and that's good, but we also have to be realistic, we didn't create enough yesterday and that is something we need to keep working on. Whoever thought a half year ago we wouldn't be happy with a draw against Australia at the WC."

The match remained goalless throughout as both sides produced disciplined defensive displays. Australia enjoyed several penalty-corner opportunities, but India's defence stood firm, while goalkeeper Savita and her backline repeatedly denied the Australians. India also benefitted from successful video referrals that overturned key Australian chances during the contest.

India came closest late in the game through Salima Tete, Navneet Kaur and Lalremsiami, but the crucial finishing touch eluded them. Head coach Sjoerd Marijne's side even withdrew their goalkeeper in the closing stages in search of a winning goal, but Australia managed to keep them at bay. Despite the disappointment, the tournament marked one of India's finest performances at a Women's World Cup. The team will now play the classification match for fifth and sixth place, ensuring their second-best finish in the competition's history after finishing fourth in 1974.

— ANI