TEHRAN – Iran edged past Uruguay 2-1 (15-16, 15-14, 6-5) in the Beach Handball World Championships on Monday.

The Iranian team had lost to Argentina 2-1 (10-13, 12-8, 6-4) in Pool A.

Team Melli will face reigning champions Croatia on Wednesday.

Croatia and Spain will begin their bids to defend their respective men’s and women’s titles when the Beach Handball World Championships begin in Kazan in Russia tomorrow.

The six days of competition is being held at the Kazan Beach Sports Complex, in Kazan, Russia from July 24 to 29.

In the men’s draw, Croatia have been drawn against Iran, Uruguay and Argentina in Group A.

Group B is made up of Spain, Hungary, Vietnam and New Zealand, while Group C comprises Oman, Australia, Denmark and 2016 bronze medalists Qatar.

Last year’s runners-up Brazil headline Group D, which also includes hosts Russia, the United States and Sweden.