After seven wins from seven on their way to the title in Edmonton two years ago, Japan's 14-0 demolition of Venezuela was their third win Miyazaki to see them top Pool A.

Earlier wins over Australia and Hong Kong means the Japanese have yet to concede a run outscoring their opponents 47-0 so far.

The success of the home side is being watched by impressive broadcast figures on cable-network firm TV Asahi and via global webcasts on Mexican-based AYM Sports.

World number one side Japan are joined in the final four by the three sides ranked directly below them in the world standings.

Two-time champions the US topped Pool B with two comfortable wins over Chinese Taipei and The Netherlands, before overcoming North American rivals Canada 8-7 in a tight contest to close out pool play.

Japan remain on course for a second consecutive world title after topping Pool A with victory over Venezuela ©Facebook




Canada's victories over The Netherlands and Chinese Taipei is enough to see them join Australia - both sides are joint third on world rankings - as the second placed sides.

Australia recovered from their opening defeat to the hosts by squeezing past Venezuela 4-3 before a comprehensive 29-1 win over Hong Kong.

The Australians will now take on the US in the first of tomorrow's final four games, while Japan will face Canada.

Due to their perfect records so far, victory for the US and Japan will see them go straight through to the gold medal match on Sunday (September 7).

If Canada or Australia harbour any hopes of competing in the decider then they will have to win their respective matches against the top two, which will set up a do-or-die clash when the two meet in their second final four match tomorrow.

The gold and bronze medal matches are due to be staged in the Sun Marine Stadium in Miyazaki, while the contests to determine places five to eight will also take place on Sunday at the Ivy Stadium in the Japanese city.

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