United States secures quarterfinal spot with women's rugby win vs. Japan

The United States advanced to the women's rugby quarterfinals on the first day of competition. (Getty Images)

Americans move on

The United States guaranteed itself a spot in the quarterfinals of the Olympic women's rugby tournament, beating Japan 17-7 in the second of three pool play matches.

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Tries from Illona MaherJordan Gray-Matyas and Ariana Ramsey, along with stifling U.S. defense, kept the Americans' medal hopes very much on track with a 2-0 record.

Japan was unable to muster any kind of offense against the 2019 world runner-ups when it mattered, managing only a consolation try as time expired.

With the win, the U.S. is assured of a top-two position in Pool C, and can win the pool with a victory over Rio 2016 gold medalists Australia in the final pool play match Friday.

Australia handled its business against China, 26-10, to also move to 2-0.

New Zealand charges late to down Brits

The top two contenders in Pool A met in what proved to be the the match of the day as New Zealand, through a last-second try by Michaela Blyde, completed a two-score comeback to down Great Britain 26-21.

New Zealand secured its path forward while Great Britain winds up in a tie for second in the pool with ROC.

Fiji and France notched Group B wins in the day's second session to set themselves up for advancement.