By defeating Thailand 17-13 VP Canada have assumed the sole lead as China crashed to defeat against Australia, going under 7-23 VP, that result demonstrating once again that there are no easy matches in a World Championship. Despite their loss China hold on to second place but they have to share it with Norway who secured a narrow 17-13 VP win over Brazil. The Netherlands just got the better of USA I, 16-14 VP, good enough to put them into fourth place, just one VP ahead of Thailand.

The chasing pack is led by Denmark, from Israel and USA I, these three teams being separated by only 2.5 VP. Israel have been struggling since they briefly took the lead and today they face Norway, China and Canada. If they can survive that awesome task then they will be in good shape.

Although there are still eight rounds to go, it looks as if the race to qualify now lies between the first eight teams. That should be sufficient incentive for France and Egypt to race up the table.