Olympic champions China beat Russia 3-1 to win the opening group match at an international women's volleyball tournament in Switzerland.

China, who defeated Russia 3-1 and 3-2 in two international matches last week, continued their winning streak in Tuesday's match.

The Chinese women took a 2-0 lead after winning the first two sets 25-14 and 25-17.

Russia then reduced the deficit to 2-1 by taking the third set 25-23.

The Russians led 10-5 in the decisive fourth set. China struggled to pull within 13-12 but the adamant Russians managed to stay within 18-16.

The two teams then tied at 22-all and 24-all before China scored twice to take the set 26-24.

In other matches, Brazil and Cuba each won easily over their opponents.

China will next take on Germany in the second match in Group A.

(CRI June 7, 2006)