In the final match of the pool, Cuba needed a win to take first place while the Soviet team needed to reach at least 10 bouts won to guarantee first place (a 9–7 Soviet win would result in a three-way tie, broken by touches).

The Soviets got to 10–5 to win the pool, with the final bout unnecessary.

Poland defeated Bulgaria 9–7 to win the pool.

In the only match of the pool, Italy defeated Hungary 8–7.

(The final bout was unnecessary, as Italy's 65–52 touches lead ensured that Italy would win the tie-breaker even if Hungary won the last bout 5–0.)