Budapest, Hungary, July 16.— All matches went to form on the opening day of women’s water polo at the FINA World Championships at the Alfred Hajos Pool here today.
In Group A, Italy had the better of Canada 10-4 and China was up and down in an 11-4 defeat of Brazil.
In Group B, Spain was too good for New Zealand, winning 10-2, thanks to a 3-0 start and a 4-1 finish. Reigning world champion United States of America eclipsed South Africa 24-2.
In Group C, Netherlands, silver medallist in Kazan two years ago, made short shrift of France, going from 7-0 at quarter time to 12-0 at halftime and on to a 17-2 victory. Hungary drew the biggest crowd, about 6000, and beat Japan 20-11 in what was a thrill a second.
In Group D, Australia, fourth in Kazan, downed Kazakhstan 16-4. Russia headed off Greece 9-7 by controlling the match throughout.
Progress points:
Group A: China 2, Italy 2, Canada 0, Brazil 0.
Group B: USA 2, Spain 2, New Zealand 0, South Africa 0.
Group C: Netherlands 2, Hungary 2, Japan 0, France 0.
Group D: Australia 2, Russia 2, Greece 0, Kazakhstan 0.