The Finns eased past Australia 32-0 in their last match in Group B at the Stadthalle Sursee, reaching the last four in second place.

Pressure had been put on Finland to win their match after third-placed Germany beat Spain 6-2.

Denmark, runners-up four years ago, secured top spot by easing past Spain 11-1.

Finland are set to play Group A winners The Netherlands in the semi-finals, after they finished the first stage of their tournament with a perfect record.

The Dutch overcame hosts Switzerland 10-5, although their opponents progressed in second place and are due to take on Denmark in the last four.

Defending champions Italy thrashed Canada 15-1, but finished third in Group A and have to settle for classification matches to decide where they will rank between fifth and eighth, beginning with a clash with Spain.

Belgium avoided bottom place in Group A by beating Canada 3-0, and take on Germany in their first ranking match.

Canada play Australia in the match for ninth place.

Semi-finals are due to be held tomorrow, with the World Championship concluding on Sunday (August 14).