**Bhubaneswar:** Argentina thumped New Zealand 3-0 in the second Pool A encounter and moved one step closer to qualifying for the quarter-finals at the Kalinga Stadium here.
Olympic champions Argentina’s Agustin Mazzilli scored a goal in the 23rd minute, Lucas Villa in 41st and Lucas Martinez on 55th, moving the team to the top of Pool A with six points.
New Zealand got their first opportunity in the 18th minute when they were awarded a penalty corner but Kane Russell’s flick was saved by Argentina custodian Juan Vivaldi.
Despite the loss, New Zealand is still at second place in the table ahead of Spain and France.
While Argentina will play world number 20 France in their last pool match on December 6, New Zealand will be up against Spain.
**Also Read:** [Odisha Hockey WC 2018: France Holds Spain To 1-1 Draw](https://ommcomnews.com/odisha-news/odisha-hockey-wc-2018-france-holds-spain-to-1-1-draw)
