Cuba created a nice surprise, defeating the Netherlands 3-1 in the opening game of Montreux Volley Masters on Tuesday, while the United States and China both well started.

China beat Poland and the Americans defeated Japan, both in three straight sets, to kick off the tourney, held from June 8 to 13.

Cuba took advantage over the vice European champions Netherlands by winning the first set 25-18, before the Caribbean team won the second set 25-22 with the powerful serves from Silva.

The Dutch then reacted with a 25-17 comeback, helped by Manon Flier's magical arm.

The fourth set was tied with both teams going back and forth but the Cubans were able to conclude the match on a malicious point by Silva.

Tuesday's second game faced the powerful Americans with the quick Japanese. The Americans did not started largely favourite as expected, winning the first two sets on the tied score of 25-23. However, they became more comfortable in the third game, defeating the Asians 25-21.

China, the bronze medal winnners of the 2008 Olympic Games, smashed their way to the opening victory over Poland.

The players of the new head coach Wang Baoquan defeated Poland in three games on the score of 25-17, 25-23, 25-17.

Except in the second set where China won 25-23 after being down 22-23, the Asians could control the entire game around.

The Montreux Volley Masters is an international women's volleyball competitions held annually in Montreus, Switzerland. Brazil was the champion of last edition.