The two teams had played out a 9-9 draw at the National Swimming Pool in Volos.

On three occasions, Greece missed the target in the subsequent shootout only for their opponents to also fail to find the net.

Russia, though, held their nerve and eventually triumphed 8-7 at the end of a marathon encounter.

Greece consequently missed out on securing a male and female world junior double in the same year.

They still enjoyed a great tournament, however, in which they had knocked-out several top teams, including defending champions United States and The Netherlands, on the way to the final.

The hosts also enjoyed the consolation of star player Eleni Xenaki being named best player and top scorer.

Evgeniia Golovina of Russia received the best goalkeeper accolade.

Lizette Rozeboom scored five goals as The Netherlands recovered to take the bronze medal earlier today.

They triumphed 9-6 over Spain.

The US sealed fifth place with a 4-2 win against Hungary.