Amiru shimada

Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro: The United States clinched a berth at the Paris Olympic Games as they defeated Japan 2-1 in the semifinal of the women's FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers, scoring two late goals off penalty corners to secure a place in the final here.

The United States, who won a bronze at home in the 1984 edition, fought back brilliantly to return to the Olympics for the seventh time, the last appearance coming at the 2016 games in Rio de Janeiro.

The United States came to India as the least favourite among the contenders but were the first to clinch a berth in the Olympics as they rode on an undying spirit, defending stoutly as they remained unbeaten so far, conceding only one goal in four matches.