Italy, Czech Republic, New Zealand, Serbia

First three to semifinals. Czechs in front by half a canvas to Serbia. New Zealand in third, Italy in the hot seat. Following cameras show the crosswind pushing USA bows over towards strokeside. Positions remain the same but the field are starting to stretch apart. New Zealand starting to claw back on the Czechs moving towards half way. Serbia have moved in front and now lead by over a length after a big surge through 1000m. New Zealand have pushed into second place. The Czechs have just over a length over Italy but will need to be aware of a fast Italian finish. They start to lift before 1750m and draw towards New Zealand. Italy come to within three feet of the Czechs with a few strokes to go and find the extra to push through just before the line. Close finish. Serbia win. New Zealand in second and Italy’s finish give them the last qualification place in third. The Czechs pay for a fast start and go out.