Cuba became the first team to qualify for the final four with a 31-26 win over Azerbaijan in Group A at Tbilisi Sports Palace.

Despite Azerbaijan scoring first, the Caribbean nation soon took a lead which they never relinquished.

They twice led by seven goals – 15-8 in the first half and 26-19 with 10 minutes to go – and although Azerbaijan narrowed the deficit they never came close to a spectacular comeback.

Bulgaria booked their semi-final spot with an impressive 37-22 victory over Ireland.

The score was locked at 8-8 early on, before Bulgaria turned on the afterburners.

After going 10 goals ahead less than 10 minutes into the second half, Bulgarian coach Nikola Vasilev Karastoyanov rotated his squad ahead of the Group B clash with Georgia.

Georgia booked their place in the semis after beating the United States 28-22 – a result which means the US cannot catch them or Bulgaria in the top two.

The one remaining semi-final spot, in Group A, lies in Britain's hands after they defeated China 28-23 to earn their third straight win.

Sebastian Edgar was the star for Britain with 12 goals, while goalkeeper Owen Insou impressed with 11 saves, including a penalty.

China, who could catch Britain if they slip up in their final match, competed well in tight game, trailing just 21-20 in the 48th minute before Britain pulled away.

Britain face Colombia – who beat strugglers India 41-36 on Wednesday – in the final round of group games, knowing they would reach the semi-finals should they avoid defeat.

If Colombia win, they will qualify if China fail to beat Azerbaijan.

Should China and Colombia both win, the Asian side would progress as they beat the South Americans in their opening pool fixture.

In the late game, Nigeria beat Malta 40-13 for their first victory of the tournament.