TEHRAN – Iran defeated Hong Kong 19-2 at the 2022 Asian Water Polo Championship on Saturday.

Iran had previously defeated India 19-4, South Korea 17-8, Kazakhstan 11-10 and Thailand 15-3 in the competition.

Team Melli, headed by Aleksandar Ciric, will play winners of China and South Korea on Sunday in the competition's semifinals.

The competition is being held in Samut Prakan, Thailand from Nov. 7 to 13.

The Asian Water Polo Championship serves as qualification for the 2023 World Water Polo Championship to be held in Fukuoka, Japan.

The top two teams as well as hosts Japan will take part in the world championship.