The Russians fell further behind in the race for first in Pool C after splitting their two matches with Cuba last weekend in Khabarovsk. They now sit in second place at 5-3, 5 points behind the Cubans (6-2).

To catch up to the leaders, the Russians not only have to gain maximum points against Japan (2-6) this weekend and Bulgaria (3-5) on July 17-18, but also hope the Cubans lose more than 5 points in their matches against the same opponents. At this point it's probably more realistic for the Russians to hope to get a ticket to the Final Round in Belgrade by winning the single wild card from the FIVB.

However, Russian coach Daniele Bagnoli wants his team to collect maximum points in the games left. "As long as we have a slim chance we should cling to it," he said.

Russia should be extremely confident of winning this weekend against Japan, not only due to their victories over the Asian team this year but also because they hold a 22-2 advantage historically against Japan. But Bagnoli knows better than to take Japan lightly. "Japan can be very dangerous if they have the right motivation and play with enthusiasm," he said.

Surgut, a western Siberian city, will be hosting its first Would League matches, which will be played at the 4,500-capacity Sparta Arena.