New Zealand could only manage a 1-0 win over Malaysia, but qualified for the last-eight of the women's Hockey World League Semi-Final tournament ©FIH

New Zealand recovered from their shock defeat by home team Belgium to secure a 1-0 win over Malaysia and qualify for Thursday’s quarter-finals of the women's International Hockey Federation (FIH) Hockey World League Semi-Final in Brussels today.

The Black Sticks, ranked fifth in the world, had hoped for more goals after Olivia Merry gave them a fifth-minute lead against a defence that had conceded nine against the hosts in their earlier pool match, 

But had to settle for a narrow win which saw them finish behind Australia in Pool B on goal difference, earning a last-eight meeting with Italy.

Belgium’s subsequent 1-0 defeat in the final Pool B match by Spain, for whom Berta Bonastre scored in the 24th minute, means the hosts finished third and will play South Korea in the next round.

The Netherlands rounded off their Pool A matches with a resounding 5-0 win over Italy that gives them a quarter-final against the Spain.

New Zealand will play Italy in the quater-finals ©FIH
New Zealand will play Italy in the quater-finals ©FIH

A brace from Charlotte Vega along with scores from captain Marloes Keetles, Margot Van Geffen and Maartje Krekelaar gave the current World Cup champions their fourth victory in as many matches.

South Korea, beaten 9-0 by the Netherlands on Saturday, claimed second place behind the Dutch thanks to their 2-1 win over China, who also progress to a quarter-final against Australia.

Playing her 100th time for South Korea, Lee Youngsil was at the heart of their defence, keeping the China attack at bay. 

Scotland and Malaysia will contest the playoff for ninth place.

This match along with the quarter-finals will take place on Thursday (June 29).