Australia's dreams of capturing a third successive gold medal lay in tatters last night after they crashed out of the medals following a 1-0 defeat at the hands of the European Champions, Holland.
In dramatic scenes after a hard fought and exciting contest, the Hockeyroos walked disconsolately from the pitch as Holland enjoyed a memorable triumph.
The result left an exuberant German team celebrating clinching a spot in the last four where they will meet China, leaving the Dutch to take on Argentina in a repeat of the 2002 World Cup final in Perth.
After an even first half in which Australia carved out the better scoring chances, the action after the break livened up after Holland's captain Mijntje Donners hammered home a 47th minute penalty corner. But her side failed to maintain their composure and as Australia worked ceaselessly in search of a goal, Holland were reduced to ten players three times after a series of bad fouls and verbal abuse of the umpires.
It summed up Australia's tournament that they were unable to capitalise and as time ran out, so did their luck.
China maintained their 100% record when they triumphed 3-2 over the world champions, Argentina, to make sure of finishing in top spot in their group. In incredibly high temperatures both sides could take pride in their performances in a high quality match filled with skills and goal mouth action at both ends.
China took a 2-0 lead after 16 minutes but two superb goals from midfielder Luciana Aymar levelled the scores at half time. But 12 minutes after the restart, Tang Changling drove home a penalty corner to put China 3-2 ahead. Argentina rallied in search of the equaliser but found it impossible to unhinge China's resolute defence.
Yali Nie (China goalkeeper)
"We don't want to miss any chance of winning, we always try our best and never relax. The Olympic Games are my dream and I want the best for my team. We have trained hard and deserve the success we have achieved."
Kim Changback (China coach)
"I'm satisfied with the result but not at the fact we conceded two goals for the first time in the tournament."
Luciana Aymar (Argentina)
"We are in the semi finals and that's what counts. It was a good, intense match with China playing very fast."
Rechelle Hawkes (former Australia captain and three times gold medallist)
"It's very sad but they didn't make the most of their chances especially in the first half and I think that broke them. There just didn't seem to be any confidence in the team and they never hit their straps. I don't think they played to the best of their ability in one game here."
