PARIS, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Spain and the United States advanced to the quarterfinals of the Paris Olympics women's soccer event with wins on Sunday.

Spain, which beat Japan 2-1 in their first group match, saw off Nigeria 1-0 thanks to a goal from Alexia Putellas in the 85th minute.

In a clash between two former World Cup winners, the United States beat Germany 4-1. Sophia Smith scored a brace while Mallory Swanson and Lynn Williams each found the net once for the American side. Giulia Gwinn netted the German team's only goal.

Both Spanish and the United States have collected six points from two group games, which are sufficient to see them through to the quarterfinals with the final group tie yet to play.

Canada, which were fighting for life after they were deducted six points for the spying scandal, showed admirable resolve in their 2-1 win over France.

Marie-Antoinette Katoto's goal in the 45th minute put the hosts 1-0 up. Canada's relentless attack paid off with two goals in the second half.

Jessie Fleming equalized for Canada, and Vanessa Gilles scored the winner deep into the injury time.

If Canada, which won their first group game 2-1 against New Zealand, beat Colombia in the final group tie, the defending champions will still have the chance to qualify for the final eight.

Japan kept their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage alive after they beat Brazil 2-1 with two injury time goals.

Momoko Tanikawa, who had come on in the second half, sealed the win for Japan with a stunning long-range lob.

1-0 towards the end of the game, Japan were awarded a penalty after a VAR check, with captain Saki Kumagai converting from the spot.

Jhennifer had put Brazil 1-0 ahead in the 56th minute after an attack launched by veteran Marta's piercing through-ball.

In the other two ties of the day, Australia came back from 4-2 down in the first half to beat Zambia 6-5. Colombia defeated New Zealand 2-0. Enditem

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