This is how the quarterfinals shape up, determined by respective ranks in Pool A and B: Germany vs Argentina, Belgium vs Spain, Netherlands vs Australia, India vs Great BritainIndia’s quarterfinal is scheduled for 1:30 pm IST on August 4.
Germany secured their victory against Britain in the final pool stage match. Striker Christopher Ruehr scored the opening goal in the 19th minute with a hit from the the top of the circle that ended in the net. Ruehr also scored a second goal for Germany through a penalty stroke.
In Pool A, the Netherlands staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Spain 5-3. Despite trailing 2-1 at halftime, the Dutch team found their resolve during the break. Two players from the Netherlands scored twice each in the second half, propelling their team to victory.
India climbed to second place in Pool B by beating Australia 3-2. Early goals in the first quarter by forward Abhishek and captain Harmanpreet Singh gave India the advantage they needed to secure the win.
Argentina and top-seeded Belgium played out a thrilling 3-3 draw. Belgian forward Thibeau Stockbroekx scored the equalizer in the closing minutes during a scramble in front of the net, much to the delight of the enthusiastic crowd.
In other matches, Ireland defeated New Zealand 2-1, while South Africa triumphed over the host nation France with a score of 5-2. These victories marked the first wins for both Ireland and South Africa in the tournament, although all four teams are already out of medal contention.
(With Reuters inputs)