In a tight match between two debutants, North Macedonia led by four points in the first half, before Nigeria fought back and levelled at 25-25 with 15 minutes to go.

But the hosts would not be denied in front of a home crowd at the Boris Trajkovski Sports Center as they closed out a 37-34 victory, with Nenad Kosteski scoring 13 goals.

Elsewhere in Group C, Denmark have two wins from two after beating Argentina 29-19, pulling away in the final 10 minutes as Emil Jessen top scored with seven for the Danes.

Japan also boosted their last-16 hopes by beating Bahrain 27-24, leaving four teams – Japan, Bahrain, North Macedonia and Argentina – on two points after two games.

In Group A, 2017 runners-up Spain were held to a surprise draw by Norway at the Jane Sandanski Arena, the 28-28 scoreline marking the first tie of the tournament.

Norway were much improved from a 10-point loss to Croatia in their opening fixture and they celebrated wildly after blocking a last-second attack from Spain to secure their point.

Croatia continued their strong start with a comfortable 43-21 victory over Chile, with coach Lino Cervar rotating his squad throughout to give his fringe players a run-out.

Slovenia also maintained their 100 per cent record, although they were made to work harder for their 30-22 victory against Saudi Arabia.

Competition in Skopje continues tomorrow with matches in all four groups.