Germany and Canada have reached the semifinal round of the Women's World Cup soccer tournament.
Germany was expected to dominate Russia, but the 7-1 quarterfinal thrashing was a surprise. Forward Martina Mueller slammed a shot in from close range in the 25th minute for the only score of the first half. But a 30-minute scoring barrage by the Germans quickly eliminated Russia and set up a semifinal showdown with the United States on Sunday in Portland.
Canada shocked China, 1-0, to advance. Canadian captain Charmaine Hooper was able to head a corner kick into the net in the seventh minute. Canada's defense then kept pace with the fast Chinese women and killed several great chances to score.
Canadian coach Even Pellerud says his team had to match the physical pace China always sets.
"We knew it was going to be a game based on hard, hard work a lot of running, chasing balls, keeping a good organization, and a desire to win," he said.
Canada next plays Sweden for a berth in the Women's World Cup championship game to be played October 12 in Carson, California, just south of Los Angeles.