The Italians lost out in straight sets to the hosts in the Rio 2016 gold medal match in August, as Brazil claimed a memorable gold medal on home soil.

It was a different story today, however, as the Europeans won a roller-coaster five-setter at the Nippon Gaishi Hall in Japanese city Nagoya.

Luca Vettori collected 27 points as his country prevailed in a barnstorming encounter, 15-25, 27-25, 27-25, 18-25, 15-12.

It means that both countries now boast one victory and one defeat after two matches of the round-robin tournament.

The Italians lost to Iran yesterday with Brazil beating France.

Brazil, hoping for a fourth Grand Champions Cup title in a row, lost for only the second time in 19 matches at the tournament.

Italy are playing at the event, also featuring four continental champions and hosts Japan, as the FIVB's wildcard selection.

With no final or knock-out matches to be played, the winners will be the team which finishes top of the round-robin.

The Iranians moved into pole position by becoming the only team to boast a 100 per cent record after the first two games.

They needed five sets to beat the Italians yesterday and their match with United States - victors over Japan on day one - also went the distance.

It was a special victory as the Asian nation came from 2-0 down to stun the Americans 20-25, 17-25, 27-25, 25-21, 15-12.

Milad Ebadipour led the way in the comeback, registering 18 points.

France recovered from their opening defeat by condeming Japan to a second consecutive straight sets loss.

The European champions came through 25-15, 25-23, 25-23 to secure a first win on their tournament debut.

After a rest day tomorrow, the last three rounds of the competition will be played at Osaka's Municipal Central Gymnasium from Friday (September 15).

Iran will next meet Brazil, with France playing the US and Italy meeting Japan.

The men's event is following the women's competition, won by China.