The Americans led 8-5 with only four minutes to play in the third quarter at the Tofurdo venue, and looked in command.

They came unstuck, however, as Italy netted four unanswered goals to turn the Group C clash on its head.

Domenio Iodoce netted the winner with just 21 seconds left on the clock.

In other matches, Brazil beat South Africa 11-7 and Montenegro defeated Australia 10-6 in Group A.

Group B saw a big win for Russia, 20-5 over Argentina.

Hosts Hungary enjoyed a good start elsewhere in the group, winning 22-11 against China.

Croatia then defeated New Zealand 20-5 in Group C.

In Group D, Spain saw off Canada 19-2 and there was a big 24-6 success for Colombia over Saudi Arabia.

The group stage will continue tomorrow.