The United States and China claim remaining semifinal spots

MILAN, Italy, October 10, 2014 – World No. 2 United States and China earned advancement into Saturday’s semifinals without stepping on the court on Friday at the FIVB Volleyball Women's World Championship Italy 2014.

The Dominican Republic (straight-set loss versus Brazil) and reigning champions Russia (1-3 defeat against Italy) finish their World Championship campaign on the fifth rank. World No. 1 Brazil and host Italy top their third round pools to avoid a direct duel in Saturday’s semifinals.

Saturday’s semifinals at Mediolanum Forum in Milano will feature Brazil v United States at 17.30 (local time) and Italy v China at 20.45 (local time).

World No. 1 Brazil shut out the Dominican Republic 3-0 (25-19, 25-21, 25-17) to top Pool H in Round III of the FIVB Volleyball Women's World Championships Italy 2014. Joining Brazil in qualifying from Pool H are China, thanks to their five-set victory over the Dominican Republic on Thursday.

The Dominican Republic rank fifth overall at these World Championships - a huge leap from their previous best of 11th in 1998. For the Queens of the Caribbean, it is the reward for a great run over the last three weeks Host Italy overpowered reigning champions Russia 3-1 (25-12, 25-17, 12-25, 25-23), sending the 13,000 fans into a frenzy at Mediolanum Forum in Milan. The hosts had already secured the pole position of Pool G after winning the first set and had knocked out the defending champions after winning the second.

With Saturday's semifinal against China in less than 24 hours, Italy coach Marco Bonitta then rested his starting players, giving court time to his subs and allowing Russia to stay in the game for one more set. It was Russia's fifth defeat in 11 matches. Italy have extended their record to 10-1.

The defending champions Russia have bowed out of the FIVB Volleyball Women's World Championship Italy 2014. Their fifth-place finish is their worst since ranking sixth as the Soviet Union in 1986.