The host nation got off to a strong start in the OSTCHEM U20 European Championship Women.

Thanks to a balanced scoring attack, Hungary edged Israel 68-62 in a hard-fought contest.

		Dimana Georgieva helped Bulgaria to victory over the Czech Republic.

Rita Ibolya Kollo scored 17 points for the victors while Dora Horti contributed 16 and eight rebounds, Katalin Honti 11 and Andrea Somogyi 10.

The Hungarians were up 34-25 at half-time, but a third quarter fightback from their opponents put the result in doubt.

In the end, Hungary's balanced attack helped them maintain victory.

Israel's Chen Nusel can count herself unfortunate to have finished on the losing side after pouring in a game-high 22 points.

In action from Group C, Spain defeated Poland 73-54 and Russia took down Turkey 65-60.

In Group D, Italy beat Latvia 63-59 and Belgium prevailed 62-45 over Germany.

Bulgaria won 74-60 over the Czech Republic in Group A. Finland also was victorious in the group.