Jr Hockey World Cup: Argentina, Spain claim last two berths into quarter-finals

Bhubaneswar : Nov 28 : .

Former Champion Pakistan came back twice to level scores from a goal deficit, but 2013 winners Argentina were too strong and won 4-3 in their preliminary match in the FIH ODH Hockey Mens Junior World cup.

Argentina reached the quarter-finals thanks to this win.They won two of three Pool D gamesSpain booked their berth to last-eight by defeating South Korea 9-0 in Pool C.They finished second behind the Netherlands who defeated the United States 14-0 at Kalinga Stadium here.These were the crucial matches of Sunday, as the winners would qualify to the next round.All eyes will be on these matches.

After losing to Germany in earlier matches, Pakistan and Argentina had to win their final group match.Argentina got off to a great start, scoring a goal in the 10thminute.

Pakistan equalized the score with skipper Abdul Rana scoring from a penalty corner.Argentina scored in three minutes with Ignacio Nardolillo scoring a field goal.

However, the lead was short-lived when Rizwan Ali converted a penalty stroke to make it 2-2 in the 28th.Argentina scored two goals in 12 minutes, with Francisco Ruiz scoring and Ignacio Ibarra scoring field goals to make it 4-2 for South Americans.

Pakistan pulled one goal back after Aqeel Ahmad scored from a penalty corner.Pakistan exerted some pressure in the final minutes of the match, but couldnt find the equalizer.

Spain was not worried as they dominated Korea.Brothers Pepe and Pau Cunill scored a brace each, as did AbajoIgnacio.

As Spain put on a strong performance, Fortuno Guillermo scored a goal as did Eduard de Ignacio­Simo and Rafael Vilallonga.Other matches took place on Sunday.

The Netherlands defeated the United States 14-0, while Germany gave Egypt an 11-0 victory.Both teams finished their Pools with an all win record.bs #Hockey #World #Argentina #Spain #quarterfinals.