The United States surprisingly beat Brazil 3-2 to pull the first upset at the World Cup men's volleyball tournament here on Thursday.

The Americans, guided by head coach Doug Beal, beat the Barcelona Olympics champion 25-22, 25-18, 22-25, 20-25, 15-13.

"This is a great start for the tournament," said Beal. "I like this team very much, a good mix of experience, youth, energy, size, and physical ability. The only thing we lack is experience, knowledge to do very well."

The Brazilians once took an 11-10 lead in the deciding 15-point final set, but the Americans rallied to clinch the victory on their second match point.

Also on Thursday, Russia scored an easy victory over Asian champion China 25-14, 25-21, 25-16.

It was the first time Russia took part in the World Cup after the former Soviet Union won it four times.

World powerhouse Italy won its first match with ease, beating African champion Tunisia 25-21, 25-21, and 25-16 in just one hour.

In Tokyo, Cuba defeated South Korea and Argentina beat Spain, both in straight sets, while Canada edged hosts Japan 3-2.