TOKYO >> The United States secured a berth at next year’s London Olympics by defeating Italy 25-23, 25-15, 22-25, 25-21 Thursday at the volleyball World Cup.

Destinee Hooker had a team-high 24 points as the Americans improved to 9-1 and moved into first place.

Italy already sealed a place at the 2012 Olympics with Wednesday’s win over Germany. Either Japan or China can secure an Olympic berth on the final day of competition on Friday.

Fourth-place Japan faces the United States on Friday, while third-place China takes on Germany.