The Hockeyroos' title hopes are over after a narrow 1-0 loss to The Netherlands in the Hockey World Cup semi-final in Spain.
The Australians had only conceded one goal in four matches prior to the semi-final, including a 2-0 win over the host nation in the quarter-finals.
However the Hockeyroos found it impossible to break down the defence of the reigning world and Olympic champions.
The second half started with a string of penalty corners for the Netherlands, but the Australian defence held firm.
In the end Frédérique Matla, who was the top scorer for the Dutch at last year's Tokyo Olympics, was the one to open the scoring with a flick inside the post past keeper Renee Taylor in the 42nd minute.
The Hockeyroos chased the game in the final quarter, but could not create the opening they needed.
"It was as great test for our girls. We had them on the ropes for a while there and it was a lucky penalty corner that unfortunately went in," said Hockeyroos captain Jane Claxton.
"We have to rebuild for tomorrow and start again. Any medal match is an excellent opportunity for us to grow so we will be going out to do our best to win bronze."
Australia will now face Germany in the play-off for the bronze medal at 2:30am AEST on Monday morning.
