Olympic champions China have been dropped out of the semi-finals of the 2006 FIVA World Grand Prix after a 3-0 loss to Italy.

China were defeated in straight sets 25-17, 25-17 and 25-14.

The Chinese team, who had beaten Cuba 3-1 in their opening game, were eliminated from contention for the gold medal and will play Asian rivals Japan in the play-off for fifth place.

(CRI September 9, 2006)