India’s FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign came to a heartbreaking end as Australia

India vs Australia Hockey (Photo by HI)

India’s FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign came to a heartbreaking end as Australia held them to a 0-0 draw and advanced to the semifinals on Sunday. The final whistle confirmed a 0-0 draw. Australia advanced to the semifinals, while India’s hopes of ending their 51-year wait for a World Cup semifinal appearance came to an end.

With the result, Australia progressed by virtue of having scored more goals in the pool, while India will now play for fifth place.

Disallowed Goals Mark Intense First Half

In a tightly contested match, Australia had two goals disallowed in the first half against India. The first instance came just two minutes in when Grace Stewart appeared to score, but India’s review successfully overturned the decision due to dangerous play.

Australia’s Kershaw found the net in the 40th minute, but again, a review negated the goal after it was determined the ball had struck an Indian defender’s arm.

Despite Australia earning multiple penalty corners, India’s defense, led by first rusher and goalkeeper Bichu Devi, held strong. Colwill’s drag-flick was blocked, and another Australian review was denied, keeping the score level at halftime.

With time running out, India removed Bichu Devi and brought on Deepika as an additional outfield player in a final attempt to find the winner. Australia, however, managed the closing stages smartly, keeping possession near the corners and running down the clock.