South Africa secured a narrow victory over the United States in their semi-final at Kalinga Stadium.

The US took the lead through Aki Kaeppeler’s strike late in the first half, only for Austin Smith to level in the third period.

Nicholas Spooner converted the winner in the 60th minute to take his side through to the final.

The result ensured South Africa of a place at one of seven Olympic qualifiers taking place later this year.

India also secured their place in the qualifier by earning a comfortable victory over Asian Games winners Japan.

The Indian team recorded a 7-2 victory over Japan in their semi-final.

The hosts will now face South Africa in tomorrow’s final, following the United States' match against Japan for third place.

The fifth place playoff took place today, with Russia claiming a 3-2 win against Poland.

The tournament in India is the second of three men’s FIH Series finals.

Canada won the opening event to book a place in the Olympic qualifiers, along with beaten finalists Malaysia.

The third event begins tomorrow at Le Touquet in France.