BANGKOK (FIBA U19 World Championship for Women) - Having suffered a close shave against Canada on the opening day, Russia left nothing to chance against Japan in their Group C encounter on Friday.
In the process, Russia won 83-64.
Tatiana Petrushina led an all-round Russian attack in the first quarter as the European powerhouse raced ahead 17-5 in the first five minutes of the game.
And another strong start to the second half - Russia outscored their rivals 15-6 in the first part of the third quarter - saw Russia reach their second win from as many games without much ado.
Petrushina finished with a game-high 15 points.
Despite the defeat Japan - who had beaten Tunisia on the opening day - are almost assured of a place, thanks to Tunisia's second successive defeat earlier.
Rateisa Fukano was the highest scorer for Japan with 13 points.
FIBA