Defending champions and Olympic silver medallists Argentina, seeking to maintain their record of winning every edition of the Pan American Cup so far, swept aside Canada 3-0 in their semi-final at the Prince of Wales Country Club.

Chile edged out the United States in a shootout to set up a repeat of the 2017 final and qualify for the World Cup for the first time in their history.

Argentina and Chile will be joined at the World Cup, due to take place in Spain and The Netherlands in July, by either Canada or the US, who will play for bronze.

Eugenia Trinchinetti slotted home just after half-time to put Argentina in front in their contest with Canada.

Jimena Cedres then scored twice in the fourth quarter to seal victory and send Argentina through to the final on Saturday (January 29).

"Well, we've just accomplished our main goal, being in the top two of the tournament and getting the ticket to attend the World Cup," Argentina's Maria Granatto said.

"Now we are going to play the final in the shirt we train so hard for and love so much. 

"And now we have qualified for the World Cup, we are very calm and confident about our team. 

"It's truly a tremendous joy for us and the team is very happy."

Chile took the lead against the US through Camila Caram but were pegged back by Erin Matson's dramatic equaliser two minutes from time.

Claudia Schuler was the hero for Chile in the shootout as she saved four American penalties, inspiring her side to a historic win.

The semi-finals of the men's tournament are due to be held tomorrow.