Belgium, the current title holders, cruised into the semifinals after a convincing 2-0 victory over New Zealand at Kalinga Stadium. Even without the presence of star player Alexander Hendrickx—who missed the game due to a knee injury sustained against Japan in Pool B—the Red Lions looked comfortable. The match was decided by goals from Tom Boon and Florent Van Aubel. Now, Belgium awaits the winner of the quarter-final showdown between Germany and England, scheduled for Wednesday, January 25.
Although the reigning champions took a few minutes to find their rhythm, they eventually dominated the flow of the game. By executing their tactical plan effectively, they managed to find the net in the first two quarters, securing a lead they would protect until the final whistle. The opening goal came early in the 11th minute, courtesy of a clinical penalty corner strike by Tom Boon.
New Zealand's defense faltered immediately at the start of the second quarter. A well-placed cross from Simon Gougnard on the right side of the circle sliced through the defense, leaving Florent Van Aubel completely unmarked to fire home a simple goal in the 16th minute.
The second half of the match remained scoreless. Belgium continued to press the attack, but New Zealand's defense held firm to prevent further damage. Despite a few determined offensive pushes by the Black Sticks in the closing quarter, they were unable to convert their chances into goals.
Earlier that day, Australia—a three-time champion—narrowly escaped with a 4-3 win over Spain in the first quarter-final. This gritty victory marks the 12th consecutive World Cup semifinal appearance for the Australians. Having previously lifted the trophy in 1986, 2010, and 2014, Australia has now reached the final four on 11 different occasions.
The battle between Australia and Spain was an incredibly tight affair. The turning point came in the third quarter when Jeremy Hayward netted two crucial penalty corners. Spain had a golden opportunity to level the score four minutes before the end of the game, but captain Marc Miralles missed a pivotal penalty stroke while trailing 3-4. Australia, remaining a top contender for the title, will now play the winner of the match between South Korea and the Netherlands.