Women's Hockey WC: India face Italy in knockout round

India will look to book their place in the last-eight of the ongoing 14th edition of the Women's Hockey World Cup when they take on Italy in their pre-quarterfinal match here at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre on Tuesday.

Earlier, India had to fight their way into the knockout round after they drew their opening game 1-1 against England before losing to Ireland 0-1 in their second Pool B match of the prestigious tournament.

However, they put up a spirited performance and settled for a 1-1 draw against the United States of America in a do or die third-round match to make it to the knockout stage.

Italy, on the other hand, had a smooth journey so far in the tournament, having edged past China 3-0 and Korea 1-0 in their first two matches of the tournament.

However, the Italian team will be under some pressure as they are coming off an embarrassing 1-12 defeat at the hands of defending champions Netherlands in their third match of the World Cup.

It should be noted that India have faced 17th ranked Italy quite a few times, including at the 2014-15 World League Semi-Finals.

Meanwhile, the winning team will cross sword with Ireland for the semi-final berth in the tournament.