Brazil, the United States, Japan and Germany progressed to the semifinals of the Olympic women's soccer tournament after winning their quarterfinals on Friday.

The Brazilians became the first team into the final four when they defeated Norway 2-1 at the Tianjin Olympic Center Stadium. Goals by Daniela and Marta gave the Brazilians a 2-0 lead but Siri Nordby scored a penalty in the 83rd minute to give Norway a consolation goal.

In an East Asian derby, Japan beat China's Steel Roses 2-0, ending the host's dream of winning a medal at their doorstep. The two goals were scored by Homare Sawa and Yuki Nagasato in each halves respectively.

The match between the United States and Canada was interrupted by thunderstorms in Shanghai.The U.S. was held to a 1-1 draw with Canada after 90 regular minutes, whose first half suffered a 100-minute-long break due to the bad weather, making the marathon-like game ended after a total of four hours.

Natasha Kai netted in a nice diving header 12 minutes into the playoff following Shannon Boxx's left side center to end the Cannucks' hope.

Extra time was also needed to split Germany and Sweden who failed to score after 90 minutes in their match at Shenyang Olympic Stadium. The two fought fiercely and created many chances in both halves, but neither of them could break the deadlock before the half-hour extra time.

Midfielder Kerstin Garefrekes jumped for a header in the 105th minute after Renate Lingor crossed the ball from the left corner. Swedish goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl stuck up a hand, but couldn't stop the ball sailing toward the far post. Ten minutes later, Renate Lingor confirmed the German victory with a small angle shot from the right.

The semifinals will see Brazil play Germany at Shanghai Stadium on Monday, 18 August while the USA will face Japan at Beijing Workers' Stadium on the same day.

Both semifinals feature re-matches of games played in the group stage. On those occasions Brazil and Germany played out a 0-0 draw while USA defeated Japan 1-0.

Source:Xinhua