Russia defended their women's world handball title with a 29-24 victory over Norway in the final in Paris.

Anna Karejewa and Jelena Poljenowa scored six goals apiece as Russia avenged their loss to Norway in the final of last year's European Championships.

Gro Hammerseing notched five for the Scandinavians who were level at 7-7 before Evgeny Trefilov's side went on a 9-5 run at the end of the first-half.

It was a third world title for Karejewa, Oxana Romenskaja and Irina Poltoratskaja following Russia's victory in St Petersburg in 2005 and in Merano in 2001.

The two teams automatically qualify for the Beijing Olympics next year.

Germany edged Romania 36-35 in extra-time to claim the bronze after the sides were level at 32-32 at the end of normal time.

Eurosport