Nine places in each of the Tokyo 2020 men's and women's team events are available, while each successful side at the Pavilhão Multiusos de Gondomar can also nominate two members to compete in the singles event at this year's Games.

There’s a knockout format from the outset, with reaching the last eight the main goal – with no quarter-finals, semi-finals or a final.

By Friday (January 24), eight men's and women's teams will have secured Tokyo 2020 berths.

In each event, the one further place will be determined on Saturday and Sunday (January 25 and 26).

Perhaps the biggest surprise was Belarus defeating Thailand 3-2 in the afternoon session, with Viktoria Pavlovich securing a thrilling win thanks to a straight-games singles victory over Nanthana Komwong.

There were comfortable victories for Poland (3-0) over Nigeria, and Ukraine (3-0) over Belgium in the women’s competition, while France conceded just one match to Russian Federation in their 3-1 victory.

Singapore were too strong for Luxembourg (3-1), while The Netherlands looked very impressive against Serbia, not losing a match.

There was disappointment for Great Britain, as Maria Tsaptsinos, Tin-Tin Ho and Charlotte Carey were outplayed by Spain 3-0.

As expected, India were too strong for Luxembourg, winning 3-0, while Portugal also whitewashed Slovakia.

In the men’s competition, Italy came through against Malaysia 3-1, as Poland defeated Lithuania 3-0.

In tomorrow's games, the majority are from the men's draw, with Thailand against Chinese Taipei looking like an outstanding match-up.