In their first World Championship, New Zealand needed five sets to claim an opening day Group C victory as they edged out their European rivals [Serbia] 3-2 at the Schützenwiese Stadium.

Fellow debutants Belgium were unable to find a winning formula in Switzerland as they lost 3-1 to Serbia this morning, before succumbing to Czech Republic on the same scoreline in their second game of the day.

The Czech Republic had earlier defeated Poland 3-1.

Namibia opened their Group D account with two straight set triumphs.

They won 3-0 against The Netherlands and Japan as they moved top of the group, while Denmark overcame Australia 3-2 in the group’s other opening day fixture.

Germany are the defending champions at the Winterthur event, a qualifier for the 2021 World Games in Birmingham in America.

They had the perfect start in Group A as they eased past Argentina 3-0 as group rivals Brazil recorded a 3-0 win against the United States.

Hosts Switzerland won 3-0 against Chile while Austria won 3-0 against Italy in Group A.

The group stage is due to continue tomorrow.