The second game of the day had little interest for the rankings: whatever the result, the two teams knew that they would meet again on Sunday to play the 5th and 6th place. They nevertheless played an entertaining match and Italy were promptly up by two goals, both scored by Massimo LANZANO. Russia were far from the form they displayed against France on Thursday, scrambling a number of good chances, and half-time was reached with the 2-0 score-line for Italy.

Russia immediately displayed more purpose in second period, however they were unlucky on a penalty-corner that hit the post, then on a combination that had the Italian defense beaten but ended just inches wide. They continued to pepper the Italian goal but were definitively not in a good day and it is only in the 48th minute that Evgeny MOKROUSOV managed to beat Davide GUIDA in the Italian goal. Alexander KOROLEV tied the game in the 60th minute, but not before Davide GUIDA had stopped a few more shots from close range!

The game ended tied at 2-2 and the two teams will have an opportunity to settle their rivalry on Sunday.