Spain was the third qualifier for the semifinals, holding out Montenegro 7-6. Spain at one stage held a three-goal advantage and always looked likely to make the top four. Reigning champion Italy upset the huge Hungarian crowd when it went four up in the final quarter against Hungary before finishing with the 11-10 victory.
Japan created history by beating Australia for the first time in an official match — 15 -7 — and moves into the play-off for ninth position on Friday. Georgia will be the opponent as it went on the rampage against a gallant South Africa, winning 20-7. South Africa will contest the Commonwealth “final” and 11th place.
