The bronze medal contests added more excitement, with Shirlen Nascimento (BRA) facing Timna Nelson Levy (ISR) and Acelya Toprak (GBR) meeting Jessica Lima (BRA), two clashes reflecting the intensity and balance of this highly competitive group.
Final
Amandine Buchard (FRA) vs Faiza Mokdar (FRA)
Few athletes know each other better than Buchard and Mokdar. Though they usually compete in different categories, these French teammates train side by side daily and that familiarity shaped a fascinating tactical duel. Buchard struck first with a well-executed kata-guruma to score a yuko, reminding everyone of her signature move. Yet as Mokdar applied sustained pressure, Buchard picked up two penalties midway through the contest, putting her on edge. Mokdar’s strategy became evident: force a third shido. The plan worked. Buchard was penalised again, giving Mokdar the victory and the gold medal for France. It was a fine performance from Mokdar and an impressive silver for Buchard in her first appearance at -57 kg.
Bronze Medal Fights
Shirlen Nascimento (BRA) vs Timna Nelson Levy (ISR)
The contest was tense from start to finish, with each athlete accumulating two penalties by the halfway point. Each attack carried the risk of elimination but it was Timna Nelson Levy who received the decisive third shido, handing the victory and the bronze medal to Shirlen Nascimento. The Brazilian celebrated a hard-fought win that highlighted her discipline and ability to stay composed under pressure.
Acelya Toprak (GBR) vs Jessica Lima (BRA)
Jessica Lima opened strongly, scoring waza-ari with a clean o-uchi-gari early in the contest. That forced Acelya Toprak to take more risks in search of an equaliser but despite her aggression and visible power, she couldn’t find a way through Lima’s solid defence. The Brazilian maintained her lead to the end, securing another bronze medal for Brazil, a fitting reward for her sharp execution and tactical steadiness.
Final (-57 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-57 kg)
