Spain, who were surprise Olympic silver medallists in Atlanta, confirmed themselves as the dark horses for the men's World Cup title in Utrecht yesterday when they beat the holders Pakistan 2-1.

On a red letter day for Hispanic nations, Argentina's women qualified for the semi-finals, coming from behind for the fourth consecutive match to defeat the New Zealand 2-1.

They were joined from Pool B by the Netherlands, who overpowered India 5-0. The Dutch win ended the faint hopes of South Korea, who beat the disappointing England side 3-2.

The Spanish men, who have won twice and drawn once in Pool B, trail the Australians on goal difference while Pakistan are third on six points, though the latter two have still to meet while Spain have just Malaysia and Poland to face. The turning point came at 2-1 when Pakistan were awarded a penalty stroke but captain Tahir Zaman's shot was saved by Ramon Jufresa - the first penalty the Pakistani captain has failed to convert at international level.

Australia, who won their only World Cup back in 1986, took a while to get going against Malaysia, whom they led only 1-0 at halftime. They sped away in the second half to record the second 8-0 win of their campaign. Jay Stacy scored four times.