Host team USA had high hope for this competition but were up against strong opposition with an Austrian squad impressive in pool matches. As they are used to, the USA started the game at full speed, applying strong pressure on the Austrians and not hesitating to take their chances close to their circle.

Best American chance of opening quarter was in the 10th minute for William Holt, unleashing a powerful shot that had Austrian goal-keeper Mateusz Szymczyk beaten but was saved by a defender on the line. Austria had a penalty-corner opportunity on their rare incursion in USA territory but to no avail and first quarter ended scoreless.

Play continued fairly balanced in second quarter, with a good chance for Pat Harris. Austria were weathering the storm calmly and scored on one of their first push forward in the 27th minute by Alexander Bele to take a tenuous lead at half-time.

Austria tried to take control of play in third quarter but the Americans were working very hard and not leaving them any leeway. Pat Harris had another chance in front of an empty net but could not control the bouncing ball; he earned a penalty-corner on the play but it was shot wide. The Europeans were calmly setting their plays, making the Americans run after the ball, but the USA were rewarded for their hard work in the 45th minute when captain William Holt deflected in goal from short range a free hit played quickly in the circle through the Austrian defense, much to the pleasure of the local fans enjoying the game in the Californian sun.

Play was tense in the fourth quarter, with both teams careful not to expose themselves but still trying to earn the decision before full time. Austrian captain Benjamin Stanzl forced a penalty-corner after a powerful run thought the whole American defense, but the USA survived the attempt, plus a repeat. Michael Körper hit the post just after following a long solitary run and score was still tied going into the final minutes, setting up a torrid end of match.

Dominic Uher finally grabbed the benefit of the match for Austria after a long run along the right wing and the back line, managing to slide the ball under the sliding American goal-keeper. The USA pulled their goal-keeper in the final minutes, but it was too late and Austria were relieved to hear the horn and book their ticket for a semi-final against the winner of the match between Russia and Chile.

The USA were clearly disappointed to have let the decision slip away, but could take solace in the fact that they played a strong game, possibly their best of the competition.