SHANGHAI, July 26 (Xinhua) -- The men's water polo last-four berths were produced while hosts China finished 15th here on Tuesday evening at FINA World Championships.

Hungary, Serbia, Croatia and Italy will vie for the final tickets on Wednesday.

Hosts China greeted their first win at FINA worlds by beating South Africa 9-4 to take the 15th place among all the 16 participants.

Tying on 7-7 after three periods, Beijing Olympic champions Hungary outscored the United States, whose captain Anthony Azevedo hit the post on 5 meters shot with 19 seconds left, 2-1 in the last period to first book a semi berth.

Stumbled in Germany's dogged block, the defending champions Serbia regained form gradually and outclassed the Germans in both ends to grab a 9-4 victory.

Group C leaders Croatia also enjoyed a 9-6 victory over Montenegro and will meet Italy, who thrashed Spain 10-6, in the semifinals.