Romania and Spain will seek to defend their men's and women's titles respectively at the World University Handball Championships, beginning tomorrow in the Croatian city of Rijeka.

The Romanian side will open their campaign against Poland at the Centar Zamet.

Joining Romania and Poland in Group B is Chinese Taipei, South Korea and Japan.

Croatia, Portugal, Lithuania, Egypt and the Czech Republic make up Group B at the event, the 24th edition of the World University Handball Championships.

Spain begin their defence of their women's crown when they take on Uruguay on the first day of the tournament.

Japan have entered teams in the men's and women's events at the tournament in Croatia ©FISU
Japan have entered teams in the men's and women's events at the tournament in Croatia ©FISU

Romania, Poland and South Korea have been drawn alongside Spain and Uruguay in Group B, while Group A features Croatia, Czech Republic, Brazil and Japan.

"Lately Rijeka became a very interesting city regarding to culture, but we haven’t forgotten sport," Rijeka Major Vojko Obersnel said.

"Rijeka has so much to offer when talking about sport, especially student sport. 

"I would like to invite everyone to visit and support 54 sport matches. 

"I wish smooth organisation, all the best for all participants on and off the sports venues and hope they will enjoy in Rijeka."

Around 500 players are expected to compete at the event, which concludes with the finals next Sunday (August 5).