The Hague: Defending champions Australia became the first team to ensure passage into the semifinals of the hockey World Cup with a 5-0 hammering of England here on Saturday, giving them a maximum 12 points from four matches in Group A.
England, with seven points from four outings, are still in contention for the semifinals, but must win their last league fixture against Belgium, who are on nine points after a 5-2 victory over Spain.
India are in the fourth position with four points, followed by Spain on two and Malaysia on zero.
Australia had five different players scoring a goal each against England.
Making entries on the scoresheet were Matt Ghodes, who opened the account in the first minute, Liam de Young, Jamie Dwyer, Kieran Govers and Aran Zalewski.
Belgium raced to a five-goal lead against Spain with goals being scored by Tanguy Cosyns (two), Alexandre de Saedeleer, Emmanuel Stockbroekx and John-John Dohmen.
As the Belgians relaxed a bit, Spain managed to salvage some pride through two late goals from Eduard Tubau and captain Santi Frexia.
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