The match was effectively a straight shoot-out for top spot in Group C and the Croatian team emerged victorious with an 11-7 win over their Greek opponents at the Piscines Bernat Picornell.

The result saw Croatia, who won the world title in 2017, finish top of the group.

Hosts Spain finished top of Group B as they progressed to the next round after a 7-7 draw with Montenegro.

The result saw Spain edge Montenegro into first place on goal difference.

Olympic gold medallists Serbia had already qualified for the last eight prior to today's matches and they completed the group stage with a 100 per cent record.

Serbia recorded their third straight win by defeating Slovakia 13-5 in Group D.

Italy were also guaranteed a place in the quarter-finals before they thrashed Georgia 14-3.

The men's tournament resumes on Sunday (July 22) with the play-off round, where teams will bid to join Croatia, Italy, Spain and Serbia.

The event continues tomorrow with the next round of matches in the women's competition.