Two-time Olympic champions Brazil have inched closer to securing a spot at Tokyo 2020 with a win over Cameroon on the opening day of the FIVB Women’s International Olympic Qualification Tournament ©FIVB

Two-time Olympic champions Brazil have inched closer to securing a spot at Tokyo 2020 with a win over Cameroon on the opening day of the International Volleyball Federation Women’s International Olympic Qualification Tournament. 

The Pool D hosts beat their African opponents 25-14, 25-13, 25-16 at Sabiázinho in Uberlândia.

Gabriela Guimarães led the scoring for Brazil, bagging 15 points, including three of her side's seven aces.

Although Cameroon out-blocked Brazil seven to five, the home side produced a far superior attacking efficiency to swing the balance in their favour, with Tandara Caixeta adding another 12 points.

The Dominican Republic followed Brazil's lead by defeating Azerbaijan 25-15, 25-22, 25-18.

They were inspired by Bethania De La Cruz De Peña, who scored a match-high 13 points.

Brayelin Elizabeth Martinez and Prisilla Rivera Brens were close behind with 12 points each, while libero Brenda Castillo produced some brilliant back-court performances.

Pool D action is due to continue tomorrow as Brazil face Azerbaijan and the Dominican Republic meet Cameroon.

A group  of 20 more teams will also begin their campaigns as the other five pools get underway across the globe.

Only the top team from each of the six pools earns a direct ticket to Tokyo 2020.

They will join Japan, who have qualified automatically as hosts, at next year's Olympics.

The remaining five berths will be filled following the Continental Olympic Qualification Tournaments in January.