France has scored a hard-fought win in four sets over Australia in the men's world volleyball championship, Australia's second defeat in two matches.

Franz Granvorka, who was instrumental in his team's 3-1 victory over Greece a day earlier, had 23 points to lead France to the 25-23, 30-28, 24-26, 26-24 win.

Australia began the tournament on Friday with a 3-1 loss to Germany and will face Cuba on Sunday.

Defending champion Brazil coasted to a straight sets win over Greece. The Olympic gold medallist got 14 points from Gilberto Godoy en route to a 25-19, 25-18, 25-16 win over the Greeks.

"We had a good passing game today and our attacking system worked better than yesterday," said Brazil coach Bernardo Rezende.

Brazil opened the tournament on Friday with a 21-25, 25-19, 25-15, 25-22 win over Cuba.

AP