United States kept their quest for a fourth straight women's football gold on track when captain Carli Lloyd ensured a 1-0 victory over France to qualify for the quarterfinals.

Brazil also reached the last eight after five-time world player of the year Marta scored twice as they thrashed Sweden 5-1.

The United States are now unbeaten in 13 Olympic matches and Lloyd has once again been the United States' inspiration in Brazil.

Lloyd slotted home the only goal in Belo Horizonte after Tobin Heath's initial effort came back off the post.

The US team are assured of their place in the knockout rounds as at least one of the two best third-placed sides, but can secure top spot in Group H with just a point against Colombia.

The hosts' women have been the most impressive side in the tournament as Brazil tore Sweden apart to go in 3-0 up at the break.