It was a difficult day for the seeded favourites, and the opening category of the competition was no exception. Barbara Twarowska (POL) began her campaign strongly, reaching the semi-finals, but she was unable to cope with the strength and precision of Belgium’s Maelys Dapa. The Belgian judoka had already impressed earlier in the day, first defeating Noelia Paz (BOL) thanks to excellent groundwork, before overcoming Martina Tucaj (CRO) with a waza-ari scored early on from a sharp seoi-otoshi. In the following round, she dispatched France’s Céline Iddir with a yuko, underlining both her consistency and efficiency.
Final, Maelys Dapa (BEL) vs Clarice Ribeiro (BRA)

On the other half of the draw, French hopes rested on Nourane Moussati (FRA), who was determined to book her place in a world final. Sadly for her, those ambitions were cut short by Brazil’s Clarice Ribeiro, who sealed victory in their semi-final with an ippon from a hold-down.

Gold medallist, Clarice Ribeiro (BRA), for the third time

In the final there was little suspense. Clarice Ribeiro took control quickly, scoring an early yuko before finishing the contest with excellent groundwork and a decisive hold for ippon. She is world champion but not only once, nor twice, but three times in a row at the cadet level. This is impressive!

Bronze medal contest, Sarah Mendes (BRA) vs Nourane Moussati (FRA)

That final line-up had pushed Moussati into the bronze medal contest, where she would face another Brazilian, Sarah Mendes (BRA). This time, the outcome was far more positive for the French judoka. After Mendes was disqualified, Moussati claimed a well-deserved bronze, a first medal for the French delegation.

Bronze medal contest, Gabriela Herta (MDA) vs Barbara Twarowska (POL)

The second bronze medal contest featured Gabriela Herta (MDA) against Barbara Twarowska (POL), the latter looking to bounce back from her semi-final defeat. The contest was relatively tight but a single yuko proved enough for Twarowska to secure victory and take home a world bronze medal.

Medals, cheques and flowers were presented by Mr Pavlin Petrov, Deputy Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Bulgaria, and Ms Ioana Babiuc, IJF Referee Supervisor

Final (-48 kg)

Bronze Medal Fights (-48 kg)

See also