Dutch back from the brink

Van der Wielen (right): Scored a stunning double

The Netherlands kept their Olympic medal hopes alive by recording a 2-1 victory over Spain thanks to a superb double from Susan van der Wielen.

The Dutch girls were a draw away from elimination after losing their first two matches to Australia and Argentina.

But a strong Netherlands side, who were winners of the Champions Trophy in May, struck timely form, aided by goals in each half by star striker van der Wielen.

Wielen scored the first with a penalty corner seven minutes before half-time, and then added another in the 63rd minute by deflecting in a pass from the right.

Sonia de Ignacio earned Spain a consolation goal two minutes before the final hooter, but the defeat was a setback for her team.

Preliminary phase

Spain, who carried forward four points from the preliminary phase, ended the super league tied with the Dutch on six points each.

Argentina, who also have six points, will advance to the final against hosts Australia if they defeat New Zealand later on Wednesday.

Defending champions Australia have already qualified for Friday's final with 10 points and a game in hand against China.

The first two teams in the super league will contest the gold medal, while the next two will clash for the bronze.

In the ninth and tenth place play-off, South Korea put South Africa to the sword with a 3-0 victory.

The goals came from a Kim Eun-Jin penalty corner, while Yoo Hee-Joo scored twice to seal the win.