The Russians had fought back from a 2-0 deficit to beat Poland 3-2 in their opening clash yesterday, but they showed no signs of tiredness from that encounter as they were able to enjoy a more straightforward match against Italy, who were making their bow in the tournament.

Despite facing a team who had appeared at the past four Olympic Games, Russia were impressive in the opening set which they were able to claim 25-16.

While the Italians levelled the match by winning the second 25-23, they proved unable to maintain that standard, with Russia regaining control to win the next two sets 25-19, 25-21 to win the contest.

"Our team felt very good before the game, even after the long game of yesterday,” said Russia’s Nataliia Obmochaeva.

“We arrived with the right mentality today, but it's a good thing for the Russian team that we have a free day tomorrow."

Having recorded two wins Russia look set to advance from Pool B, with Belgium making an ideal start to claiming the second place in the semi-finals after they inflicted a second defeat on Poland, who will now require favours from other teams if they are to progress.

After trading the first two sets,  the Belgian team gradually gained control of the match and eventually sealed a 25-19, 16-25, 27-25, 25-18 victory.

Hosts Turkey, who are looking to replicate their success at the tournament in 2012, earned their second successive win as they defeated Germany in a clash of the top two in Pool A.

A superb opening set went the way of the home team 27-25, but with the clash so even between the two sides, it was no surprise to see the Germans level the match.

However, the Turkish produced a sterling defensive display to claim the next two sets and seal a 27-25, 23-25, 25-16, 25-17 win to remain top of the pool.

A meeting between bottom sides The Netherlands and Croatia is scheduled for tomorrow.

Meanwhile, the men’s Olympic qualification tournament got underway in Berlin today, with Russia brushing aside the challenge of Finland in Pool B.

Finland are seeking to progress to the men’s Olympic competition for the first time but they failed to pose their opponents with a strong enough challenge, as Russia recorded a 25-17, 25-16, 25-19 win.

The Russian team will look for their second win when they face France tomorrow, while Finland are due to meet Bulgaria.

Home fans were left happy as Germany clinched a straight sets 28-26, 25-19, 26-24 triumph over Belgium in Pool A, while their neighbours Poland, the world champions, also secured an opening day win.

It looked like being a tricky encounter for the Polish team after their Serbian opponents claimed the first set 25-22, but they achieved parity by claiming the second 25-18.

While the Serbians continued to battle admirably, their team proved unable to shift the momentum back in their favour, with Poland claiming the final two sets 25-23, 25-21.