Italy, who had not taken part in the competition before this year, were the first team to seal their spot today when they beat Iran 28-26, 23-25, 25-15, 25-22 in the first match of the day. 

It means they advance from Pool C alongside the reigning champions China.

Ukraine were the second team to seal their spot in the next round, when they beat Egypt in straight sets 25-14, 25-6, 25-13.

That result means they advance from Pool D in second place behind Brazil, who won their third match today to remain unbeaten in the pool. 

The South Americans beat Finland comfortably this afternoon, 25-7, 25-11, 25-17. 

China were already through before today’s play, but confirmed their spot at the top of Pool D ahead of Ukraine,by seeing off Slovenia 25-6, 25-16, 22-22.

Russia saw off Hungary in Pool B to finish second in that group, also winning in straight sets 25-15, 25-11, 25-8. 

In what was undoubtedly the game of the day, the hosts the Netherlands triumphed over Canada in a five set match, 24-26, 25-15, 13-25, 25-19, 15-8.

It means the Netherlands finish top of Pool A, with Canada coming second.

Pool B's last game meanwhile finished in a comfortable victory for the US over Japan,  25-14, 25-13, 25-12.

Today’s results mean the quarter-finals will be China versus Ukraine and Brazil against Italy in the bottom half of the draw, while in the top half the Netherlands will now face Russia and Canada will play the United States. 

The men's tournament is due to resume tomorrow following a rest day.