The Dutch side, chasing their third consecutive title, were joined in the last four by Spain, Argentina and Australia.

Spain earned a 5-3 victory over England, while Argentina edged the United States 2-0.

In the last quarter-final contest of the day, Australia were in superb form as they thrashed Belgium 7-2.

The Netherlands will take on Spain in the semi-finals and Argentina will clash with Australia, with both matches scheduled to be held on Friday (December 2).

The Dutch team began brightly against the Germans and took the lead after 11 minutes through Marie Burg before Frederique Matla doubled their advantage shortly after.

Goals from Pleun van der Plas and Yentl Leemans then put the result beyond doubt and the gloss was put on a commanding afternoon for the defending champions when Matla scored her second late on.

“We expected a tough game - Germany is always a really tough game for us, it’s a classic game,” Dutch player Charlotte Adegeest said.

“We were really excited to play today as we have just had two rest days.

“We had so much energy, we were so excited, that’s why we won.”

Spain were largely on top throughout their eight-goal thriller with England and they went in front in the 15th minute thanks to captain Begoña Garcia.

England managed to draw level nine minutes later as Erica Sanders converted a penalty corner, but their joy was short-lived as they fell behind shortly before the half-time interval.

The Spanish side then dominated and opened up a 5-1 lead, effectively sealing their spot in the last four, although two late England goals made for a nervy finish.

Bianca Donati’s penalty corner on the stroke of half-time gave Argentina the platform for a narrow win over a resilient United States, whose defence proved tough to break down throughout.

Captain Lucina von der Heyde added a second after the restart and the Americans were not able to force their way back into the contest as the South American outfit progressed.

Australia started slowly in their match against Belgium, going behind in the third minute as Lien Hillewaert found the net.

A frantic opening continued when Grace Stewart equalised for Australia in the fifth minute and they then took the lead through Madison Fitzpatrick.

The Australians were not ahead for long, however, as Joanne Peters restored parity almost immediately.

From that point on, Australia took control and unanswered goals from Stewart, Savannah Fitzpatrick, Michaela Spano, and two from Ambrosia Malone saw Australia clinch a convincing win.