The hosts headed into their match against Belgium knowing that only a victory at the University of the Witwatersrand would be enough to earn a quarter-final spot.

South Africa’s hopes of success were distant, following three straight defeats, with Belgium taking full advantage of their low confidence by racing into a 7-0 half-time lead.

Alexander Hendrickx, Nicolas de Kerpel, Sebastien Dockier, Loick Luypaert and Cedric Charlier all found the South Africa net in the opening period, with Thomas Briels then scoring twice for the rampant Belgian team.

Although the Matthew Guise-Brown netted for South Africa in the second half, the hosts eventually fell to a 9-1 defeat.

The loss saw them finish bottom of the Pool B standings, with fourth placed Egypt then assured of a quarter-final match.

Germany confirmed themselves as Pool B winners, with their 2-0 success against Ireland continuing their 100 per cent record to date.

Australia also boast four wins from four, as they swept aside Japan 7-2 to finish top of the Pool A standings, with Spain edging New Zealand 4-3 to finish as the runners-up.

Having won the pool, Australia will head into their quarter-final match as the overwhelming favourites against Egypt.

Germany have been drawn against France, who progressed as the fourth and final qualifier from Pool A.

Spain will take on Ireland, while Belgium will face New Zealand for a place in the last four.

The women's competition will resume on tomorrow 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.