By beating the United States 3-2 at the University of the Witwatersrand, the hosts broke the hearts of Chile who were forced into fifth place in the group as a result.

Melissa Gonzalez cracked home a brilliant backhand effort to give the US the lead in the 14th minute before Jade Mayne pulled the hosts level ahead of half-time.

Jill Witmer edged the Americans back in front just before the third quarter break, but two goals from Candice Manuel in the fourth quarter sparked wild celebrations as she sealed the South Africans' place in the last eight.

"I’m just super stoked," said South Africa's Bernie Coston.

"We came here with an overall goal, now we just take it game by game.

"The US are a tough team to play against, and also bring the best out of us.

"The crowd went berserk with every tackle, and that really made a difference."

Defeat for the Americans meant that Argentina went into their final Pool B match against India knowing that they were already certain of a first place finish.

Las Leonas produced another excellent display, however, to claim a 3-0 triumph with goals from Rocio Sanchez, Maria Granatto and Noel Barrionuevo.

In Pool A, England finished top of the standings with nine points from their four matches and battled past Ireland to win 3-2 today.

The English team took a 2-0 lead into half-time thanks to Sarah Haycroft’s deflected shot and a superb penalty corner deflection from Shona McCallin.

Ireland replied with two quick goals shortly after the break through Nicci Daly and captain Katie Mullan.

However, England were not to be denied, with skipper Alex Danson pouncing on a penalty corner rebound to score her 102nd international goal and seal victory.

Second place in the group was claimed by Germany after they recorded a comfortable 3-0 victory over Japan.

Strikes from Charlotte Stapenhorst, Nike Lorenz and Cecile Pieper sealed the win and put Germany through to the final eight.

The women's competition will resume on Tuesday (July 18) with the quarter-final fixtures.

The US will play Japan while Argentina take on Ireland.

Hosts South Africa face Germany while England and India complete the draw.

The men's tournament continues tomorrow.