It has been only 11-10 at the interval, and the score was level at 12-12 early in the second half, but the hosts were able to reel off 11 unanswered goals from there to take control.

Alexandrina Cabral Barbosa and Carmen Campos Costa each scored five goals in what turned out to be a heavy win for the Spain at the Palacio de Deportes de Torrevieja in Alicante.

The Group H match was the only one played on the opening day of the IHF Women's World Championship.

It was preceded by an Opening Ceremony which included a heavy dose of fire, dancing, a flag parade and a performance from singer Carlos Baute.

Lola, the tournament's official cat mascot, was also present, along with Spanish Olympic Committee President Alejandro Blanco and several Mayors.

IHF President Hassan Moustafa opened the World Championship, thanking the Spanish Government, Royal Spanish Handball Federation and all the teams for their help in the endeavor.

Moustafa also urged delegations to abide by COVID-19 rules.

"I hope that the best teams will reach the finals under the motto of ‘Fair Play'," concluded Moustafa.

"Stay safe and healthy."

The tournament gets fully underway tomorrow, with seven games scheduled.