Rosario: Defending champions the Netherlands became the third team to reach the semifinals of the women's field hockey World Cup, defeating Germany 2-1 on Sunday.
The Netherlands have won all four of their Pool A matches. Argentina and England reached the semifinals on Saturday from Pool B.
In another match Sunday, Australia defeated New Zealand 4-1, to keep alive its hopes of grabbing the last semifinal place. Germany and Australia both have nine points and will play Tuesday for the final spot.
Also Sunday, India defeated Japan 2-0.
The semifinals are Thursday with the final on Saturday.
Maartje Paumen and Kim Lammers scored for the Netherlands, which reached the final four for the 11th time in 12 World Cup tournaments. Maike Stockel scored for Germany.
Lammers' late goal made the difference.
"I thought 10 minutes before the end it would be a draw," Dutch coach Herman Kruis said.
Added captain Janneke Schopman: "I think Herman's right. We thought it was going to be a draw, but now it is a lucky win."
Ashleigh Nelson scored the matching winning goal for Australia. Despite the victory, Australia trails Germany on goal difference. This means Australia must beat Germany to reach the semifinals. A draw will qualify Germany.
Rani Rampal and Jasjeet Handa scored for India. Japan has only a draw from four matches.
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