Both countries have nine points after notching up three wins, with Japan, who yesterday overcame Olympic champions China today defeating South Korea 25-18, 25-18, 27-25.

Defending champions the United States beat Brazil triumphing 25-17, 25-19, 23-25, 25-22.

Just behind Japan and US in the table are Turkey who sit on eight points, having also recorded three wins.

Turkey ran out winners in four sets against Poland today as they were victorious 25-23, 25-27, 25-23, 25-20.

Six countries sit on two wins including the Netherlands and Serbia who both have seven points.

The Netherlands overcame Russia 25-14, 25-22, 23-25, 25-20 while Serbia beat hosts Italy in the final game of the day 25-18, 23-25, 26-24, 25-20.

Italy are one of four teams who are winless, but along with Belgium have one point to their name, with Belgium beaten 25-20, 25-19, 25-13 by Germany.

Also yet to win, and also score a point, are Canada who were today beaten 25-17, 26-24, 28-30, 25-16 by the Dominican Republic and Thailand, who were defeated 25-15, 25-15, 25-23 by China.

The women now have three days rest and are due to be back in action on Monday (May 31).

The men’s preliminary round begins tomorrow with eight matches scheduled, including defending Olympic champions Brazil against South American rivals Argentina, Rio 2016 runners-up and hosts Italy against Poland, and Russia, who are seeking a third straight men’s Volleyball Nations League title up against The Netherlands.