SHANGHAI -- Greece defeated China 9-8 on Friday to win its first gold medal in women's water polo at the world championships.

The host country pulled to within one goal with 90 seconds left and controlled play for much of the final minute before losing the ball in front of the Greek goal, allowing the winners to play out the final 15 seconds.

Earlier, Olga Belyaeva scored three goals as Russia beat Italy 8-7 to take the bronze.

Greece coach George Morfesis jumped into the pool when the match ended to join his players in celebration.

"It's our first gold medal as a team, and it took us three years to realize this dream," Morfesis said. "We are happy, but I think we can do better in the years ahead."

It was China's best women's result in the world championships. The Chinese had never finished better than 11th in three previous worlds in which they had competed.

"It's a pity that the team failed at the last moment. I think it's a great chance to win the gold at worlds," China team leader Liu Qinlong said.

The top-scorer trophy of the tournament was awarded to China playmaker Ma Huanhuan. Eleni Kouvdou of Greece received the best goalkeeper trophy.

Earlier, Australia beat the two-time defending champion United States 10-5 for fifth place, and the Netherlands defeated Canada 8-7 to take seventh place in the 16-team competition.

Serbia plays Italy in the men's gold-medal match Saturday, and Hungary takes on Croatia for bronze.