Canada have set up an Olympic semi-final clash with the United States after overcoming Team GB 2-0 in the quarter-finals on Friday.
It was Team GB who enjoyed the better of the possession in the early stages, but it took until seven minutes for the first attempt of the match to emerge.
It fell to Canada's Jonelle Filigno, but Karen Bardsley was on hand to palm the danger to safety, before Team GB's Alex Scott fired a tame effort into the hands of Erin McLeod.
Canada, who improved after a slow opening, took the lead after 12 minutes when Filigno whipped a fine half-volley into the top corner.
Team GB came close to a response after 18 minutes when Jill Scott curled an effort from outside the box, but McLeod was always comfortable in gathering the ball.
Team GB so nearly levelled after 24 minutes when Alex Scott found the head of Karen Carney in the area, but she just headed over the bar.
It was 2-0 to Canada moments later, however, when Christine Sinclair curled a free kick into the corner of the net.
Ellen White came the closest for Team GB in the latter stages of the half, but her effort was deflected behind.
Diana Matheson had the first chance of the second period for Canada, but she fired her effort wide of the target from close range.
Team GB continued to push as the hour mark of the match approached, while Melissa Tancredi so nearly added Canada's third with an effort from outside the box.
Hope Powell's side continued to push as the match approached the last 20 minutes, but Jill Scott just could not find Eniola Aluko inside the box.
Team GB continued to push for the goal in the latter stages, but Canada took the sting out of proceedings with a spell of possession.
Powell's side had a penalty claim turned down after 80 minutes when Aluko was felled in the box by Rhian Wilkinson, but no decision was forthcoming.
The match drifted away from Team GB in the latter stages as Canada booked their spot in the semi-finals.
Matt Law
