United States

Canada draws, US loses in opening water polo games at worlds

Published Jul. 17, 2017 5:03 p.m. ET

BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) Canada came from four goals down to draw with Montenegro 8-8, while the United States lost its opening match of men's water polo at the world championships on Monday.

Croatia, the only team to have won a medal at each of the last five worlds, defeated the United States 12-7 in Group D, where Japan and Russia were to play later.

Three-time champion Hungary got the home fans cheering by beating Australia 13-3, and Italy defeated France 18-9 in the other Group B game.

Defending champion Serbia routed South Africa 21-5 to begin its campaign in Group C, where Greece almost let a three-goal lead slip against Spain before winning 8-7.

Also, Brazil beat Kazakhstan 6-2 in Canada's Group A.