The women's group stage at the World University Handball Championships moved towards a close on a day when titleholders Spain lost to South Korea ©FISU

South Korea and Spain, the women's finalists at the last edition of the World University Handball Championships in Malaga two years ago, met again today at the latest edition in the Croatian city of Rijeka.

This time it was South Korea, the 2016 silver medallists, who came out on top.

In a match where both teams demonstrated their knowledge of the other, the Koreans found the way to win 24-22 at the Zamet Sports Hall in the International University Sports Federation event.

They are now on top of Group B with three wins out of three and one more match to play.

The Spanish defending champions, meanwhile, are fourth out of five with a win and a defeat so far.

In the earlier women's Group A match, Japan beat the Czech Republic 29-23, with Kondo Maharu contributing 10 fine goals.

Portugal's defensive capabilities have helped establish them at the top of Group A in the World University Handball Championships in Croatia ©FISU
Portugal's defensive capabilities have helped establish them at the top of Group A in the World University Handball Championships in Croatia ©FISU

On the men's side, Poland earned a first win in Group B with a 35-20 result against Chinese Taipei.

Adrian-Vladut Rotaru was another scoring hero on the day, contributing 15 goals as defending champions Romania beat Japan 29-25.

Romania are now level on points with Japan in Group B as both sit behind leaders South Korea, who have won all three of their games so far.

Portugal, meanwhile, top the men’s Group A in front of the Czech Republic.