The Russian Olympic Committee breathed life into their handball title defence by beating France 28-27 in a rematch of their Rio 2016 final clash to reach the quarter-finals of the women's competition on Saturday, while Sweden progressed in style. Ekaterina Ilina scored nine goals from as many shots as the Russians - competing as representatives of the ROC without their flag due to doping sanctions - held their nerve to make it five points from four games ahead of their clash with Spain. Sweden were locked with Brazil after 50 minutes at Tokyo's Yoyogi National Stadium before a late charge helped them seal a 34-31 win and punch their ticket to the knockout stage with seven points from four matches.