Olympic::Men's Hockey Day 5 Preview

Germany facing must-win match

Australia, the Netherlands and Spain only need a draw to book semifinal berths but world champion Germany must beat New Zealand to clinch a medal rounds place in the Men's Hockey competition at the Olympic Green Hockey Stadium on Tuesday, August 19.

Pool A

The first match of the day will kick off between Germany and New Zealand. The world champions are on a comeback streak after a disappointing start but need to win to keep their medal aspirations alive. Even if they draw, Germany will advance should Korea fail to beat Spain. The Kiwis have no option but to win.

The Republic of Korea will play against Spain, which need only a draw to advance to the semifinals. But the Asian team must win. Spain now is expected to load its defense in a safety-first approach.

China will compete with Belgium to conclude the matches of the day. Both teams have one point apiece after four matches. China, making their Olympic debut in Men's Hockey, can finish no higher than ninth. Belgium, returning to the Olympics after an absence of 32 years, is also eyeing ninth spot.

Pool B

The opening match of the day will be between Netherlands and Pakistan. The Dutch have 10 points from four matches. Silver medalists at the 2004 Athens Games, the Netherlands will advance to the semi finals with a draw. Pakistan, whose last of three Olympic Gold medals came at the 1984 Los Angeles Games, are out of medal contention. Pakistan has six points from four games.

Canada in fifth in the pool with one point will compete with South Africa, which have lost all four of their matches. Both teams will play for 9th-12th in the second phase of the competition starting on Thursday, August 21.

Great Britain will meet Australia. The British team need to win by a record 15-goal margin (or smaller should Pakistan beat the Netherlands) due to Australia's goal-difference of +17 to Britain's +3. The last time Great Britain beat Australia was in the semifinals of the Seoul 1988 Games. All of Britain's four wins against Australia have been by a one-goal margin.