Having not played on the opening day, Portugal beat Egypt in their first match of the tournament yesterday at the Centre Zamet in the Croatian city.

Portugal built on their good start by winning their second match 29-26 against Lithuania today.

The result put them top of the standings on four points, with Egypt lying second after bouncing back from yesterday’s disappointment to win 25-24 against the Czech Republic.

Egypt have three points from their opening matches, having recorded a win, draw and loss so far.

They are one point clear of Lithuania and Croatia, but have played one game more than their rivals.

The Czech Republic are bottom on one point, following one draw and two defeats.

Group B is headed by South Korea and Romania, who have both won their opening two fixtures.

Romania clinched a 29-25 win over Japan today, while South Korea enjoyed a day off competition.

Both teams lie on four points, with third placed Poland and Japan lying on two.

Poland, who were 35-20 winners over bottom placed Chinese Taipei, have played one match more than the group leaders.

Japan appear set to feature in the women’s handball semi-finals, after they earned their second Group A victory.

The Japanese team beat the Czech Republic 29-23 to occupy top spot in the group.

They are one point clear of Brazil, who played out a 17-all draw with Croatia to maintain their two point advantage over the hosts in the battle to reach the last four.

Group A will have a rest day tomorrow, while the five team Group B will continue action.

With leaders Romania having a day off after two wins, South Korea joined them at the top of the standings.

South Korea clinched a 24-22 win over Spain to boost their pursuit of a semi-final place.

Spain are joint third with Poland, who were comfortable 48-10 winners against Uruguay.