The Italian side’s pursuit of a place in the last eight had been given a boost yesterday after they had beaten defending champions the Czech Republic, who are seeking a fifth men’s crown.

They were able to build on that momentum with a comfortably win against Mexico as they dominated proceedings from start to finish.

Fabio Lievore was one of the star performers for the hosts as he scored four goals, while Bryan Belcastro also chipped in with a hat-trick.

The result sent Italy to the top of Group A ahead of the Czechs, who ended their group stage campaign by sweeping aside Latvia 8-2.

Canada await for the host nation in the quarter-finals after they cruised to an 8-0 triumph in their clash with Great Britain.

Elsewhere on a packed day of action, France edged a close-knit match with the United States to clinch top spot in Group B.

In what was a balanced encounter, which featured two sides who finished on the podium at the 2015 World Championships, the French team just about shaded it as the result sent both teams through to the last eight.

France will go up against Switzerland, who were another team who recorded a big win today as they annihilated China 28-1 in Group C.

The US will play Latvia, who sneaked through to the last eight despite the loss to the Czech Republic.

Argentina will be tasked with ending the title defence of the Czech outfit at the quarter-final stage tomorrow.

The South Americans reached the next round courtesy of goals from Joaquín De Giacomi and Facundo Vadra, which helped them to a 2-0 win over Spain.