New Zealand vs. Australia
New Zealand is coming off of a win over China and a thrilling tie with the top-seeded Netherlands. The Black Sticks finished in second place in Pool A while Australia is coming in from a third-place finish in Pool B. The Hockeyroos took two hard losses in pool play from the United States and Great Britain, but picked up three key wins along the way.
Both teams have shown that they can be prolific scorers when given the right opportunity, and their rosters are balanced. This one will be a very evenly matched contest, with both teams needing to capitalize on penalty corners and shot opportunities when given the chance.
United States vs. Germany
The United States have been dominant this entire tournament. They are coming off of a hard loss to Great Britain, but will use that to fuel them heading into the quarterfinals.
Germany had some tough runs in pool play that included a loss to Spain and a tie with China. They will look to scorers like Lisa Altenberg who have been consistent all tournament to make a run at a streaking Team USA.
Great Britain vs. Spain
Great Britain has the edge over Spain, who just qualified after China lost in its last game of pool play. Team GB is playing some of its best hockey. They are aggressive and hungry for a win after taking home bronze in London.
Spain on the other hand will not let its chance at a medal match go to waste. Despite having a rocky path to the quarterfinal, they earned their spot and will have to rise to the level of play that this Great Britain team has established throughout this tournament.
Netherlands vs. Argentina
Argentina bounced back from a slow start and proved why they are the No. 2 ranked team in the world. They will have a match with the No. 1 Netherlands, who have had hardly been tested this tournament until the draw with New Zealand.
The Netherlands are looking for a three-peat, but Argentina is hungry for gold this time around. The battle between the forces of Maartje Paumen and Maria Barrionuevo will certainly make for one of the most exciting matchups of the quarterfinal.