Germany beat The Netherlands to gain a first win of the European Korfball Championships ©IKF/Twitter

Germany and Portugal have each claimed their first victories of the European Korfball Championships on the third day of competition in the Dutch city of Dordrecht.

Both teams were triumphant to do their outside chances of securing a podium finish no harm.

Portugal swiftly opened up a 4-1 lead against Poland as they combined solid defence with ruthless attacking play.

They eventually won 22-8 over their Pool B opponents.

Miguel Costa led the way with six points while there were four for Isabel Almeida in the mixed gender format.

Portugal enjoyed a comfortable victory over Poland at the European Korfball Championships ©IKF/Twitter
Portugal enjoyed a comfortable victory over Poland at the European Korfball Championships ©IKF/Twitter

Portugal finished fourth when hosting the event in 2014 and will now be targeting second spot in the group behind the team that beat them yesterday, Belgium.

Germany also rebounded from an opening defeat by overcoming winless Turkey 21-13 in their Group A clash.

Lea Sander scored four times for the Germans in an impressive team effort in which 11 players managed at least one score.

Turkey have now lost three times, against Russia and Catalonia as well as the Germans.

Belgium and the Dutch hosts and gold medal favourites have each enjoyed a rest day today, but will return to competition tomorrow.