Germany’s European 5000 metres champion Konstanze Klosterhalfen kept Grøvdal on her toes, but the Norwegian moved away in the final downhill stretch with a mere 200m to go to claim the gold medal in 26:25min.

Klosterhalfen finished four seconds later while compatriot Alina Reh claimed the bronze medal in 27:19.

"I didn't do many races this year [during the cross country season] because I was preparing for this one here," Grøvdal told European Athletics after the win.

"I was tired going into the last lap, and I felt that in the last metres, but I knew that going down the hill that I am good at that.

"I knew I had to give it all when going down, and that was what I did.

"I used to be a track runner, but I know that I am strong in the cross - especially after winning last year - so the technical part is good for me.

"Today, I felt quite strong going up the hill, and I think that is the reason I took the gold here."

There was no stopping Ingebrigtsen in the men’s race, who regained his title in 29:33.

The Tokyo 2020 1500m gold medallist was nine seconds faster than silver medallist Emile Cairess of Britain.

Belgium’s Isaac Kimeli rounded off the podium with a timing of 29:45.