Singapore, Singapore, August 23, 2010 – USA and Peru were confirmed as pool winners and semifinalists in the Girls’ Youth Olympic Games in Singapore after both winning their second match from as many games on Monday.

In the first match of the day, Peru used their height advantage to beat Japan (who made it also through to the semifinals) 3-0 (25-22, 25-19, 25-18), while USA proved too good for Egypt, winning 3-0 (25-18, 25-19, 25-23).
 
Japan had to rely on chips and soft returns to land the ball in the opposition court. Soon, Peru became aware of the plan and took the initiative. 
 

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Japan's coach, Uehara Norihito, was far from satisfied with his girls, but also pointed out "this is a young side and it is the first time they are competing in an international tournament of an Olympic standard."
 
In the late game, the USA overcame a late surge from Egypt to book their semifinal spot. Egypt made a comeback in the last set and were leading at one stage, but a smash by Samantha Cash (USA) tied the game and soon her team had the lead to stay.

"We got a bit lax in the last set and that's where Egypt took an advantage," Cash said.
 
Peru will now meet Belgium and USA take on Japan in Tuesday’s semifinals.
 
Egypt and Singapore will play for fifth and sixth place on Wednesday.