The Hockeyroos, Australia's women's hockey team, face a crucial quarter-final clash against China in the Paris 2024 Olympics on Monday. The match, a rematch of a thrilling encounter at the 2024 Perth International Festival of Hockey, will be a test of the Hockeyroos' mettle as they aim to break their quarter-final hoodoo and secure a medal in Paris.
The Hockeyroos, currently ranked fourth in the world, topped Group B in the group stage, securing their place in the top eight. Their journey to the quarter-finals saw them edge out Argentina, the Tokyo 2020 silver medallists, with a late victory against Spain in their final group game. Despite avoiding tough European opponents like Belgium and Germany in the top eight draw, the Hockeyroos cannot afford to underestimate China, currently ranked eighth in the world.
A familiar face awaits the Hockeyroos on the sideline: former Hockeyroos teammate Alyson Annan, now head coach of the Chinese women's hockey team. Annan, along with her fellow Australian legend Ric Charlesworth, who assisted in coaching the Hockeyroos to gold at the 1996 Atlanta and 2000 Sydney Games, has guided China to the pinnacle of Asian hockey. Their recent gold medal win at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou secured their place in Paris, where they will be seeking their second Olympic medal after their silver at Beijing 2008.
The Chinese women's team, finishing fourth in Group A, are a rising force in women's hockey, and their recent success against the Hockeyroos, including a 3-2 victory in Perth earlier this year, has sent a clear message of their potential. While the Hockeyroos boast a dominant 6-0 win over China in the group stage at Tokyo 2020, China has emerged as a formidable opponent, with four wins in their last six encounters against Australia.
Looking back at the head-to-head record, Australia and China have faced each other 27 times since 2013. The Hockeyroos hold a slight edge, with 13 victories to China's seven, and seven draws. However, China's recent form suggests a closely contested match is in store.
For the Hockeyroos, the quarter-final clash against China is not only a chance to advance in the tournament but also an opportunity to reassert their dominance after their disappointing quarter-final exit at Tokyo 2020. For Australia's hockey fans, the match will be a captivating spectacle, offering a glimpse into the future of women's hockey and highlighting the ever-evolving landscape of international competition.
How to Watch:
The AUS vs CHN quarter-final will be broadcast live on Network Nine TV channels in Australia and live streamed on 9Now and Stan. The match kicks off at 6:00 PM AEST, giving fans ample opportunity to tune in and witness this high-stakes encounter.
