Lizzie Armitstead retained the leader’s jersey in the 2014 Women’s World Cup after finishing second in the de Trofeo Alfredo Binda in Italy.

The Otley rider, who won the first race in Drenthe two weeks ago, came close to a second victory with another good ride for the Boels-Dolmans Cycling Team.

The difference with winner Emma Johansson was marginal and both riders were given the same time of 3hrs 05min 24 sec.

Johansson outpaced Armitstead in the uphill finish of the 123.7km (76.9-mile) course alongside Lake Maggiore in Italy.

The third race of the World Cup, the Tour of Flanders, starts next week.