The Netherlands, meanwhile, also secured a lifeline with a shock win over Turkey.

Germany, whose opening day victory over The Netherlands was tempered by a 3-1 loss to the Turkish hosts yesterday, overcame a tough start to win in three straight games over Croatia, 25-16, 25-14, 25-17. 

Maren Brinker's serving powered the Germans into an 8-3 lead before they edged 16-7 ahead. 

Croatia tried to fight-back before Heike Beier and captain Margareta Kozuch led the way as Germany moved back in front for a 25-14 victory.

The Croats briefly led 5-1 in the second game before Germany roared back to win 25-14, before they eased through the third, 25-17.

Croatia will aim to secure a first win of the tournament against The Netherlands tomorrow.

Italy's clash with Belgium, meanwhile, was also a must-win considering they lost their opening match against Russia.

After winning a tight first game 25-16, they were pegged back 23-25 in a thrilling second before edging ahead after a tight third, 25-22.

There was still another twist and turn to come, however, as Belgium won the fourth, 17-25, before Italy finally clinched the win, 17-15. 

"We knew that we had to win the match if we wanted to keep our dream of a ticket to the Rio Olympics alive," said Italy's 6ft 7inch star, Valentina Diouf, who scored 20 points in the match.

“If we did not we would be out of this tournament.

"I am really glad that we managed to put in a strong team effort in such an important match.

"We all came together, and I am glad that I had the chance to contribute to the win."

The Netherlands recovered from their opening day loss with a superb crowd silencing 3-0 win over Turkey. 

On the men's side, Bulgaria secured a victory in their opening match of the tournament, 3-1 over Finland. 

A good German day continued courtesy of a 3-0 win over Serbia, while France beat Russia, 3-1.