Australia and Argentina have clinched their places in the semi-finals of the women's field hockey World Cup.

Defending champion Argentina beat South Korea 2-0 to move atop Pool B on 10 points with Australia, which drew 0-0 with Japan.

Also, the United States beat South Africa 3-1 for its first victory of the tournament.

Alejandra Gulla scored off a penalty corner in the 20th minute to give Argentina the lead. Three-time world player of the year Luciana Aymar scored her first goal of the championships eight minutes later.

Australia, the 2000 Olympic champions, failed to capitalise on early chances.

Japan goalkeeper Rie Terazono saving with her glove a hard backhanded shot by Rebecca Sanders in the fourth minute.

The Hockeyroos continued to mount pressure with its controlled play, but couldn't break open a stubborn Japanese side looking for its first win of the tournament.

Terazono blocked a shot by Angie Skirving with five minutes remaining, as Australia was made to wait until news of Argentina's win before it was assured of a top-two finish in its group.

Australian coach Frank Murray said: "The team was disappointing as our midfield did not perform.

"Japan played to a plan and their discipline stifled us. It was no use our players crashing the ball downfield so I have work to do ensuring the team comes to grips with massed defences."

Angie Loy, Carrie Lingo, and April Fronzoni all scored for the U.S. team, while Marsha Marescia had the lone goal for South Africa in the 44th.

"I always thought we were pretty close to putting in a really good performance," U.S. coach Lee Bodimeade said.

"South Africa is a really good side and you have to really work hard for a win."

The Americans have four points and will play South Korea on Wednesday hoping to clinch a spot in the 6th- to 8th-place playoff game.

Australia and Argentina will decide seedings for the semi-finals when they play in their final Pool A game on Wednesday.

On Tuesday in Pool A, England plays Germany, China faces the undefeated Netherlands and Spain hosts India.

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