Spain, seeking to win a third consecutive title, were trailing 22-18 with 14 minutes remaining in their main round Group II contest, but claimed a 26-25 win after Russia hit a post with a penalty shot after the final whistle.

Spain struggled with their attacking efficiency, which dropped to 45 per cent at one point, but held on and now sit top of their main round group with six points – a victory away from the semi-finals.

Elsewhere in the group Sweden beat Poland 28-18, tying their largest win against their opponents, a record set 55 years ago.

Poland scored only six goals in the first half and following this defeat they are now unable to reach the semi-finals.

The other game in the group saw 2020 European bronze medallists Norway overcome Germany 28-23, in the process extending their winning streak at this year’s tournament to three matches.

Norway are the top scorers at this year’s event with 162 goals, with Erik Thorsteinsen Toft top scoring against Germany with seven.

Spain lead Group II with six points, followed by Norway and Sweden, both on four, and Germany and Russia, both on two, with Poland bottom, yet to get off the mark, and mathematically out of the competition.

The third main round games in Group I are set to take place tomorrow, with Montenegro facing The Netherlands, France taking on Iceland and Denmark up against Croatia.