The Americans moved up by three positions to overtake Brazil, Russia, and Italy as they went undefeated in Rotterdam's RTM Stage.

They started with a 3-1 win over Serbia before beating both China and Iran 3-0.

A crucial straight-game thrashing of world ranking leaders Poland in the final fixture was vital towards their ascension as it came with 11.41 points towards the standings.

Combined with the points from the other three victories, their new total increased by 21.20 points to 364.82, less than 10 points short of Poland's 374.28.

The US are second overall in the preliminary round standings on 22 points from seven wins and one loss.

Japan lead the way, by a single point, with a 100 per cent record from eight matches.

The second week saw them beat Canada 3-1, Cuba 3-0, Brazil 3-2, and Argentina 3-2 to maintain their advantage at the CO'Met Arena in Orléans.

Their perfect week meant the team gained 18.23 points in the world rankings but it was still not enough to see them move up from seventh place.

Italy crept into the qualification places following an impressive three wins in Rotterdam.

They cruised past Iran, China, and Serbia with resounding 3-0 wins in each before suffering a 3-1 defeat to Poland in their final fixture.

If they can maintain their position in the top eight, they will advance to the quarter-finals next month.

The final round of pool play is set to take place from July 4 to 9 in Anaheim in the United States and the Philippines' Pasay City.

Japan are due to face off against China, The Netherlands, Italy, and Poland as they seek to remain undefeated.

Meanwhile, the US are set to meet Cuba, Argentina, France, and Bulgaria in front of a home crowd.