CHINA edged Olympic bronze medalist Brazil in a five-set thriller to secure a place in the semifinals of the women’s Volleyball World Championship in Germany Wednesday.

　　Choked up but inspired on the first anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, the undefeated United States soared to a 3-0 victory over reigning champion Cuba in an emotionally-charged match to book its place in the next round.

　　It was China’s experience that allowed it to overcome gritty Brazil 25-19, 21-25, 23-25, 25-15, 15-9 in Stuttgart.

　　After losing a close opening set, Brazil looked poised to give up the second, struggling with the strong spikes of China’s middle blockers, combined with their own reception and blocking problems. But regaining their rhythm, the South Americans managed to convert their first set point to even the score.

　　China quickly took the lead in the fourth, going 11-6 then forcing a fifth set thanks to their strong wall and several mistakes by the Brazilian side.

　　Observing a minute of silence and wearing black ribbons to commemorate the tragedy, the determined American side overcame Cuba 25-22, 25-15, 25-21.

　　Clearly moved by the moment of silence, with several players wiping their eyes, the emotional Americans got off to a shaky start, making several serving errors.

　　Earlier, Italy reached the semifinals of a major worldwide tournament for the first time in volleyball history with a straight sets win over South Korea, while hot favorite Russia also advanced, steamrolling over Bulgaria 3-0.

　　The United States face Russia in today’s semifinals in Berlin, while China meets Italy.

　　Cuba, Brazil, Bulgaria and South Korea stay in Bremen to fight out places five to eight.

　　It is the first time since 1982 that Cuba — currently initiating a new lineup of next generation players — will not be in the last four. For the U.S., it is its first semifinal appearance since 1990.

　　(SD-Agencies)