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Rio Olympics 2016: Matildas suffer cruel blow

The Matildas were devastated after Germany's late equaliser.

The Matildas were devastated after Germany's late equaliser. Photo: Getty

The Matildas have blown a two-goal lead against Germany at the Corinthians Arena, meaning they will need a convincing win in their third and final group game against Zimbabwe to progress to the knockout stage.

Against the run of play, Australia hit the front courtesy of first half goals from Sam Kerr and Caitlyn Foord.

But the Germans struck just before the break and Saskia Bartusiak prodded home two minutes from time to secure the 2-2 draw.

The result leaves Canada on top of Group F on six points, while the Germans are on four points.

After losing to Canada on the opening day the Australians, now on one point, are third in their group ahead of Zimbabwe, which lost its first two games.

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Charlotte Caslick (left) was brilliant in the try-fest against Colombia and Fiji. Photo: Getty

The women’s competition comprises three groups of four teams, with the top two sides automatically progressing to the knockout stage.

The best two third-placed sides also progress.

Women’s sevens dominate

Australia’s women’s sevens side began their Rio campaign in stunning fashion, thrashing Colombia and Fiji at the Deodoro Stadium.

Tipped as one of the tournament favourites, the Pearls racked up a combined 89 points while both opponents were scoreless.

In the opening match against Colombia, Sharni Williams began the onslaught after 56 seconds.

The Australians crossed five times in the opening period and scored four tries in the second.

Fiji wasn’t able to restrain Australia either — it was hammered 36-0.

Australia faces the US on Monday (AEST).

Kookaburras edge New Zealand

Australia’s men’s hockey team defeated arch rival New Zealand 2-1 in their opening pool game at the Olympic Hockey Centre.

Chris Ciriello and Matt Gohdes put the Kookaburras 2-0 up inside the opening 25 minutes, before New Zealand clawed a goal back on the half-hour mark.

The women begin their campaign against Great Britain later on Sunday (AEST).

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