The top two finishers from each preliminary round group progressed to the quarter-finals.

The winners progressed to the semi-final stage, while losers played for positions 5-8.

Source: International Handball Federation Places 1–8 were decided by play–off or knock–out.

Teams finishing fourth in the preliminary round are ranked 13 to 16.

In case of a tie in points gained, the goal difference of the preliminary round were taken into account.