Hungary and Spain have solid winning streak before entering the elimination round. But surprises can still happen as seven European sides and one team from Asia goes into quarter-final-Thursday.
Hungary has yet to win a gold in the prestigious championship. Since the last two editions has provided silver and bronze, there just might be more to come from the aspiring nation.
Denmark came closest to threaten the favourite but Hungary ruled in the main round duel, 27–25. With eight teams remaining in the medal race Denmark faces Croatia, who dropped a point in the group stage but managed to stay on top via a focused defensive performance against local rival Serbia.
On the other half Spain meets up with Japan. Germany, who had a calm journey in the first round, will try and get off the roller-coaster performance from the Main round. Melanie Tucholke, top scorer and breakthrough queen in the tournament is one reason to believe in German success against France.
Quarter-finals in U18 WC
Croatia–Denmark
Hungary–Serbia
France–Germany
Spain–Japan