RIO (Tasnim) - Iran was defeated against defending Olympic champion Russia in straight sets (25-23, 25-16, 25-20) in Pool B of the mens volleyball tournament at Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
Russia came third of the pool behind Argentina and Poland and Iran finished in fourth place.
Iran has been scheduled to face Pool A top team Italy on Wednesday.
Russia outscored Iran in spikes 40-37, blocks 10-7, aces 5-1 and made only 14 unforced errors compared to 20 by the losers.
Maxim Mikhaylov led Russia with 18 points, including three blocks and one ace, while Egor Kliuka charted 10 in the win. Artem Volvich contributed three blocks and finished with points.
Motjaba Mirzanjapour was the best Iranian scorer with 15 points, with 13 of those via attacks.