India, Aug. 25 -- Tears flowed freely in the Indian camp after the women's hockey team's hopes of making the World Cup semifinals ended in heartbreak, following a goalless draw against Australia here on Sunday. As final hooter sounded, veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia and Bichoo Devi, sitting in dugout, broke down.

Ishika Chaudhary, playing her maiden World Cup, sat behind them, staring blankly as the enormity of the missed opportunity sank in.

For a team that had dared to dream and looked capable of turning that dream into India's first medal in women Hockey WC, the campaign ended with tears and heartbreak.

India finished level on points with Australia but were eliminated from semifinal contention on goal difference.

The disappointmen...