Russia and Brazil reach world championship semis

OSAKA, Japan, Nov 11 (Reuters) Russia and Brazil both won 3-0 to secure their places in the semi-finals of the women's volleyball world championship here today.

Olympic silver medallists Russia defeated the United States 25-20 25-21 25-17 while Brazil cruised past Germany 25-16 25-22 25-15 to stay unbeaten in Pool F.

The two favourites face off tomorrow to decide which team finishes top of the group and earns the more favourable semi-final draw.

In Pool E in Nagoya, hosts Japan stunned the previously unbeaten Serbia&Montenegro, coming back from 2-0 down to win 3-2 and open up the group.

Serbia share top place with Italy with 5-1 win-loss records. Cuba and Japan are both on 4-2.

Italy, who beat Taiwan 3-0, take on Japan in their final group game while the Serbians face Taiwan and Cuba meet Poland.

REUTERS HSB BD1758