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The Russians now top Pool B with three wins and are assured of reaching the next phase of the tournament.

The two-hour thriller featured spirited scoring from both sides, with Andre NASCIMENTO (BRA) recording a game-high 26 points.

Both teams started the first set without their captains, Giba (BRA) and Vadim KHAMUTTSKIKH (RUS).

Andre's hands were on fire as he blasted seven kills, one ace and a block to lead the Brazilian attackers.

Murilo ENDRES (BRA) made a good save and was quick on his feet to block the Russian spike on the opposite side, and Brazil led 22-18. Brazil then triple-blocked Sergey TETYUKHIN (RUS) to take the first set 25-22.

Russia produced their own late run to win the second set 26-24. Andre (BRA) challenged Russian blockers on his powerful swings but was blocked on the last attempt to give the second set to Russia.

Gustavo ENDRES (BRA) single-blocked Alexander VOLKOV (RUS) on the right side to start a 3-0 run in the third set for Brazil. Brazil had a comfortable lead and even had a couple of set points but the Russians stayed in the game.

Maxim MIKHAYLOV (RUS) redeemed his previous performance in the other sets as he relentlessly scored on the right side on the fourth set. MIKHAYLOV blocked a Dante AMARAL (BRA) swing to end set three at 31-29.

Russia steadied and used their momentum in the fourth set. The Russian blocks shut out Andre's (BRA) offence. Giba was even brought in to replace Dante and Anderson RODRIGUES (BRA) for Andre to spark the Brazilian offence but it was too late.