They are looking to avenge their defeat to defending champions Belgium in the final of the 2009 tournament, who also won their pool A opening match, 63-53 against Finland, whilst Denmark beat Austria 45-44 in the same group.

In pool B, the hosts Switzerland romped to a 49-32 win over Ireland, Poland defeated Germany 48-44, and Britain went down 57-46 to France.

The tournament continues until this weekend, when medal round games will be played.

The three medal winners will qualify for next year's Paralympic Games, but will have a tough task on their hands to overhaul either the gold medal winning US team of 2008 or the Australian side they beat in the final in Beijing.

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