Their quartet of Rossella Gregorio, Loreta Gulotta, Irene Vecchi and Martina Criscio beat Mexico and France on their path to the gold medal match at Arena Leipzig.

They would face the challenge of South Korea, following their 45-32 success against Japan in the semi-finals.

Japan had surprisingly eliminated reigning world and Olympic champions Russia 45-43 in the quarter-finals.

The Italian team triumphed in the gold medal contest as they overcame the Koreans 45-42, securing their first team title in the event since 2003.

Bronze was earned by France, as they beat Japan 45-39.

Olympic gold medallists France and Switzerland met in the final of the men’s team épée competition, with the former coming out on top in an absorbing contest.

Ronan Gustin, Yannick Borel, Daniel Jérent and Jean-Michel Lucenay combined to good effect to come from behind to win 45-43.

Russia, who were narrowly beaten 45-43 by France in the semi-final, claimed the bronze medal.

They overcame Hungary 45-38 to secure the final spot on the podium.

The Championships will conclude tomorrow with the men's team foil and women's team épée.