Having beaten Germany and Israel on Wednesday (June 1), last year’s bronze medallists beat Czech Republic 15-7 before overcoming Venezuela 19-6.

Awaiting them in the last eight are Spain, who ensured qualification from Pool D with an 18-7 victory over Guatemala.

The Spanish ended up going through as runners-up after losing 16-13 against New Zealand in the group decider.

The Kiwis next face a quarter-final encounter with Czech Republic, who recovered from their defeat against Hungary to edge Israel 16-15 and take the runners-up spot in Pool A.

In the men’s competition, 2015 silver medallists Argentina ensured their progression to the last eight after making it four wins from four in Pool B.

The South Americans defeated Turkey15-5, and Georgia 18-14, to follow up their wins against Andorra and China on Wednesday.

Qatar stand between Argentina and a place in the last four having beaten Romania 16-13, and hosts Kazakhstan 21-9 to snatch the runners-up spot in Pool C.

Finishing ahead of them were Italy, who preserved an unblemished record by overcoming Romania 21-7 and Indonesia 22-9.

Georgia will play Italy in the quarter-finals having secured qualification from Pool B prior to their defeat against Argentina with a 19-8 win over China.

Action in Astana is due to continue tomorrow as Pools A and D in the men’s competition, and Pools B and C in the women’s event, resume.

The quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals are all scheduled to take place on Sunday (June 5).