Both teams entered their latest super-round matches with a 100 per cent record at the tournament in Palmerston North in New Zealand.

The Japanese team produced an impressive performance to emerge as 5-2 winners of the tie, which ensured they will compete in the gold-medal match on Sunday (March 1).

Australia also progressed to the final despite the five-times winners suffering defeat, with their record now standing at three wins and one loss in the super round.

A superior head-to-head record over the third- and fourth-place teams prevents Australia from being overtaken in the final super-round ties.

Argentina occupy third place in the standings following a 7-3 victory over hosts New Zealand.

The result guarantees Argentina a place in the bronze-medal match.

Argentina will face the Czech Republic in the tie, after the European nation sealed a top-four finish by beating Guatemala 10-0.

New Zealand lie fifth in the standings but are unable to leapfrog either Argentina or the Czech Republic tomorrow, regardless of the outcome of their final game against Australia.

Japan will aim to preserve their unbeaten record tomorrow when they face the Czech Republic.

Guatemala aim for their first super-round victory when they face Argentina.