Both teams proved evenly matched throughout much of the tie at the Kunshan Leisure Centre, with Russia holding a narrow 5-4 lead at half-time.

Spain outscored their opponents 3-1 in the third quarter to appear on course for the semi final, only for Russia to level the score at 8-8 by the close of the fourth.

The Russian team emerged as the winners of the shoot-out, winning 4-3 to secure their place in the last four.

Russia are set to face defending champions United States, who eased through their quarter final match in impressive style.

The reigning Olympic and world champions stormed to a 12-1 win over Australia, who had finished bottom of Group B.

The Netherlands, who won Group B, triumphed easily against Japan.

A strong performance saw the Dutch team earn an 18-7 win to book their spot in the semi-finals.

Canada will provide the opposition, having seen off the challenge of hosts China.

They claimed a 5-2 win in a low scoring affair.

The semi-finals will be played tomorrow.