Play-off matches began today at the Justin Chiu Stadium with the 2015 champions winning their round-of-16 game in fine style amid wet conditions.

Kennedy Lynch, a duel citizen of Canada and the United States, was named as player-of-the-match after a five-goal performance helped her team to the last eight.

"We did a nice job offensively, controlling the tempo and running through our systematics at a high speed," said Allison Daley, Canada's associate head coach who saw her side lose to neighbours and four-time winners the US in the group phase.

"We limited our on-force turnovers, whereas on Sunday night the USA caused a lot of our turnovers. 

"That was something we wanted to limit today. 

"We saw a lot of different girls step up to the plate. 

"We did a nice job on the draw controls to value the possession game through the last three quarters as we dominated possession of the ball. 

"That's what helps us win games."

The US, who lost the 2015 final to the Canadians, won their last-16 clash without conceding, 25-0 against Hong Kong.

There was a shock as Japan edged the Haudenosaunee – the side representing the Native American confederacy – 11-9.

"Everyone was taking ownership to challenge [on defense], and we as a staff thought they played well," said Japan's Hiroyuki Shoji.

"We had a lot of communication on the team. 

"We were sharing information, like who's dangerous, who's the key person on a play."

Other last-16 matches saw England beat China 18-9 and former winners Australia thrash Mexico 21-2.

Germany defeated Scotland 10-7 and Wales knocked out Czech Republic 12-10.

Puerto Rico pipped New Zealand 12-11 but will not play in the quarter-finals as they are only an associate member of World Lacrosse, with the Kiwis advancing despite defeat.

The last eight clashes will be held tomorrow.

Canada will take on Germany, the US will play Wales, Australia will meet Japan and England will lock horns with New Zealand.

The gold medal match will take place on Saturday (August 10).