All eight surviving teams from the opening pool stage have been placed into two further groups of four with the top two in each advancing to the semi-finals.

Russia, who are hoping to win the age-group event for the 11th time and for the third time in the last four editions, eased past South Korea in straight sets in Pool E.

They added to their three wins from the opening round with a 25-16, 25-13, 25-15 success at the Isa Sports City Hall in Riffa.

China also entered the second round after a perfect set of results in the first phase but their record was removed as they lost 3-0 to Brazil in the other Pool E game.

The South Americans, whose only defeat in round one was to Italy, came through 28-26, 25-23, 25-21 as they chase a fifth title at the event.

Italy's victory came in Pool F as they proved too strong for hosts Bahrain, 25-10, 25-15, 25-13.

The other match in the pool saw Iran beat Argentina in four sets, 25-19, 23-25, 25-22, 32-30.

Tomorrow sees the second matches of the second stage.

In Pool E, Russia will meet Brazil with South Korea playing China.

Italy will meet Iran in Pool F with Argentina colliding with Bahrain.

The tournament is due to conclude with the final on Saturday (July 27).