The Russians won the last eight clash 67-65 after hanging on in the final quarter at the Palasport Primo Carnera in the Italian city.

They enjoyed a nine-point lead heading into the final stanza and held off the Australian fightback to prevail by two.

The third quarter, where Russia scored 25 points compared to Australia's 13, proved to be key.

Maria Vadeeva scored 28 points as she finished on the winning side.

Russia will now face Canada after the latter's 68-65 win over China.

China led 21-10 after the first quarter but the Canadians only trailed by two at the end of the second and continued to improve.

Hailey Brown's 13 points and 13 rebounds proved key in the Canadian victory.

The other last four match will see the United States take on Japan.

The Americans, who are searching for a seventh consecutive title, defeated France 78-51.

Chennedy Carter scored 18 points in the victory.

Japan proved too strong for Spain, easing to a 95-71 success.

The semi-finals will be played tomorrow before the final on Sunday (July 30).