RIO DE JANEIRO, September 20 -- Russia clinched a 60-56 win over their Spanish rivals on Wednesday to qualify for the semifinals in the women's basketball World Championship, currently being played in Sao Paulo.

Spain looked strong as they led to finish the first quarter at 21-11 with combined efforts of center Ana Montanana, guard Elisa Aguilar and forward Amaya Valdemoro.

The second period saw the comeback of the Russian team, who struck back and led 31-27 into the second half.

But the Russians lost their advantage in the third period before forward Tatiana Shchegoleva brought the lead back to the Russian side by scoring a three-pointer that left her team one point ahead of Spain in the final quarter.

The two sides exchanged points until forward Natalia Vodopyanova made in two free throws in final moment to seal the win for Russia.

Spain's Valdemoro was the leading scorer with 21 points. Her team will play for the World Championships fifth position on Thursday.