Both teams headed into their penultimate match of the round robin phase with an identical record of five wins and two defeats.

The victor in the contest was assured of progression to the semi-finals with a match to spare, with Norway achieving the feat after they triumphed 7-3.

"This was a big one for us, I think we are qualified for the play-offs now," said Norway’s skip Thomas Ulsrud afterwards.

"Last game is a tough one, it's against Sweden.

"And Switzerland this morning was a tough one for us."

With both Norway and defending champions Sweden having already sealed semi-final places, three countries were left vying for the final two spots.

Russia joined Switzerland in the final qualification places after they beat Denmark 10-8, while hosts Scotland still had hope after they edged out Italy 6-4 in the afternoon session.

Scotland saw their hopes ended when they lost 8-6 to Russia who sealed qualification as a result, while Switzerland earned their place by beating Denmark 4-3.

The host nation are assured of a place in the women’s semi-finals after moving on to eight straight wins, with the Scottish team winning 10-5 against the Czech Republic and then overcoming Denmark 7-3.

Sweden also look poised to advance after beating Switzerland 7-2 to move into second spot, with the world champions now appearing out of contention.

They went on to seal their spot in the next round by beating Finland 11-2.

A 5-3 victory over Italy and 6-3 triumph over Germany saw Russia rise to third place and secure a semi-final place.

Germany’s 9-3 win over Denmark earlier in the day had put them in contention for one of the last four berths, but the Czech Republic's 8-7 win against Russia gives them the advantage in the battle for the last spot.

The semi-final line-up will be finalised tomorrow, following the final round of women’s group matches.