All four recorded three wins from three in the first pool stage, and began the second in the same vein.

Serbia defeated Poland 25-21, 27-25, 25-23 in their opening Pool F match in Kortrijk in Belgium.

Italy then enjoyed a 25-16, 25-20, 25-15 win against the Dominican Republic.

Across the Dutch border in Rotterdam, the US began their Pool E campaign with a four-set triumph over Brazil.

The final score was 25-22, 27-29, 25-20, 25-14, following more than two hours of play.

"Today’s win was an all-team effort," American libero Alexis Rodriguez told Volleyball World.

"We were really focused and really tuned in on the serve. 

"Once we cleared up our little mistakes, it all came together."

The late game was also a four-setter, with the host nation edging out Russia 25-16, 25-20, 16-25, 25-22.

With the unbeaten sides kept apart in tomorrow's fixtures, the semi-final line-up could be decided.

The top two in each pool will advance to the final four.

In the pick of the results from the other pools, where teams are playing for ninth to 15th place, Egypt beat co-hosts Belgium in five sets.