Russia won their second match in a row in Belgrade ©Twitter/WaterpoloSerbia

Defending champions Russia continued their strong start to the World Women's Youth Water Polo Championships in Belgrade.

The Russian team were winners against New Zealand yesterday in their first Group D game at the tournament.

They made it back-to-back victories at the Milan Gale Muskatirovic Sports Centre by overcoming South Africa 23-1.

Netherlands secured a 16-9 win over New Zealand in the other Group D tie.

The Dutch squad will meet Russia tomorrow to decide the group winners.

Hosts Serbia fell to a second straight defeat, as Italy overcame the locals 12-8 in Group A.

The result put Italy joint top of the standings with Spain, who secured consecutive wins by beating Canada 16-6.

Australia and Greece maintained their unbeaten starts in Group B.

The Australian team clinched a 15-6 win over Brazil, while Greece were 21-10 winners against Uzbekistan.

United States eased to a 25-2 win over Argentina in Group C and were joined at the top of the standings by Hungary, who were 18-3 winners against Kazakhstan.