European powerhouse Italy upset Olympic champions China 3-0 in their last match at the World Women's Volleyball GP in Hong Kong.

It was the first defeat for China in the tournament. China had won eight matches out of nine up till then.

In three straight sets, Italy overwhelmed China 25-22, 25-22, 25-22 to secure their place in the finals.

The other remaining berth went to the Netherlands as they beat South Korea 25-12, 25-20, 25-15 in Taipei.

After Sunday's matches, Olympic champions China, defending champions Brazil, Olympic bronze medalists Cuba, Italy and the Netherlands managed to join hosts Japan in the finals set for Sendai, from July 13-18.

The final round in Sendai will see the six teams play 15 matches over five days in a round-robin format with the team with the most victories walking away as 2005 World Grand Prix champions.

Editor: Donald