The Italian side won all four periods at Piscina Scandone here, delighting the sold-out crowd.

They dominated the first 4-1, before edging the second 3-2.

The third ended 3-1 to Italy, with the hosts wrapping up victory after a resounding 8-3 scoreline in the fourth and final period.

With the match ending 18-7, Italy achieved their 15th gold medal of the Universiade. 

"The atmosphere was fantastic," said Italian captain Umberto Esposito.

"Having this swimming pool filled with a lot of people is not something that happens every day. 

"I hope this is the start of something big.

"As a Neapolitan, it is a very emotional thing to see a lot of people in my swimming pool."

Bronze went to Hungary in a thrilling encounter as they edged out Russia 13-12 in a penalty shootout.

The match had initially ended a 10-10 draw. 

The medals awarded were the last of the 2019 Summer Universiade, with the water polo the final event to take place before the Closing Ceremony. 

Some 6,000 athletes competed in the 12-day competition for 220 medals in 18 sports.

Italy finished sixth in the medal table with 15 gold, 13 silver and 16 bronze. 

Japan topped the standings after accumulating 33 gold medals, 21 silver and 28 bronze.