Defending champions The Netherlands continued their winning run ©IKF/Twitter

Catalonia gained a first victory at the International Korfball Federation (IKF) European Korfball Championships as Belgium and hosts The Netherlands continued their winning runs on the second day of competition in Dordrecht.

The Catalans, who lost to the Dutch defending champions yesterday, started well at the Sportboulevard to move 3-0 ahead against Turkey.

They continued to push clear in the mixed-team format, eventually running out 23-15 winners.

Javier Navarro led the way with five points to take his tournament tally to eight.

The host nation continue to show ominous form in defence of their title, however, crushing Germany 26-15.

Richard Kunst scored six times for the gold medal favourites.

Catalonia enjoyed their first victory of the Championships when beating Turkey ©IKF/Twitter
Catalonia enjoyed their first victory of the Championships when beating Turkey ©IKF/Twitter

Jet Hendriks and Tim Bakker added five each.

Belgium appear the only side with a realistic chance of challenging the Dutch.

They showed their podium credentials once again with a 25-14 victory over Portugal. 

Nick Janssens scored eight times.

Belgium finished second in 2014 behind The Netherlands.

Portugal had placed fourth while hosting the event.