Defending champions Russia retained their title by overcoming world No. 1 Brazil in the final of the women's world volleyball championship in Tokyo on Sunday.

The Russians earned their hard-fought victory in five sets. They won against their opponents 21-25, 25-17, 20-25, 25-14, 15-11.

The Russians lost the first set but they soon rallied to win the second one with remarkable margins. The Brazilians bounced back in the third one with strong defense and they gained the upper hand at the end.

The fourth set was easier for Russia. Gamova Ekaterina staged effective spikes in the set and helped the team to have an advantage over their opponents.

The last set was tough with the score tight in the beginning. But the Russians were able to regain the momentum displayed in the previous match in the final minutes and won it.

Russia remained unbeaten since the championship started in late October.