India stunned Australia 1-0 to reach the semi-finals in women-s hockey at the Tokyo Olympics. This will be the Indian women's hockey team's first last four appearance at Olympic Games.
The Indian women's team had finished fourth in the 1980 Moscow Olympics but the format in those Games was different, as there were no knockout matches. India were clearly the dominant side with 59% ball possession in the first quarter but the big moment came in the second quarter when dragflicker Gurjit Kaur converted India-s first penalty corner in the 22nd minute to put her side ahead.
India had five shots on goal compared to 14 of the World No.2 side but India's defence was superb just like their midfield. They did not let Australia score despite conceding seven penalty corners in the match.
India goalkeeper Savita brought her A-game to the field and managed to save all 9 shots directed at her.
India, who qualified for the knockout stages after finishing fourth in Pool A, started on a positive note against Pool B toppers Australia and kept the pressure on them throughout all four quarters.
India will face Argentina in the semi-finals, who defeated Germany 3-0 in the first quarterfinal earlier on Monday. A spot in the semifinals also means that India are guaranteed a medal match for the first-time at the Olympics.