GWANGJU, South Korea, July 19 (Xinhua) -- Hungary, Italy, Serbia and Croatia advanced to quarterfinals in the men's water polo of the 18th FINA World Championships here on Friday.

In the third and final group matches, Hungary became the first to qualify for quarterfinals, winning its third straight match in Group C by pounding South Africa 23-5. Spain secured second position with a 23-3 win over New Zealand.

Italy had a narrow 8-7 victory over Germany as the Italian team came from behind in the last quarter, taking control of Group D. Japan beat Brazil 11-9 with a last-minute goal, after being trailed by a narrower margin.

In Group A, Serbia raced to the quarterfinals with an easy 9-3 victory over Greece. Montenegro trounced the host team South Korea 24-6, sealing second spot.

Croatia swept Kazakhstan 21-5, qualifying for the quarterfinals. The United States edged out Australia 12-11, taking second spot.