The Algerian men’s team defeated hosts Australia 5-4 in en exciting extra-time shoot-out at the IBSA Goalball Continental Championships and Paralympic Qualifier in Sydney to be assured of a slot in London next year.

In the women’s tournament, Australia defeated New Zealand 6-2 to secure their passage to the Games.

"We’re exited. It’s the first time Australia has qualified in 11 years and I’m really glad we could do it," said Australian women’s head coach Georgina Kenaghan.

Guadalajara:

The goalball tournament at the 2011 Para Pan-American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico, is in full flow. Following the preliminary stage, today sees the semi-finals in both the men’s and women’s events.

In the men’s event, Brazil will face hosts Mexico at 11:00 local time, while Canada and the United States meet in the second semi at 18:00. The medals will be decided in the third-fourth placed match and the final tomorrow (Saturday November 19th).

Hosts Mexico and the United States meet today at 09:00 in the first semi-final of the women’s tournament. The winner will face either Canada or Brazil, who meet in the second semi at 16:00, in the final tomorrow.