On one side stood Emma Feuillet--Nguimgo (FRA), top seed and world number one. For years this category has been considered a French stronghold, thanks to the country’s extraordinary depth of talent, even if the most recent world and Olympic titles have slipped abroad.
On the other side was Umida Nigmatova (UZB), who had already defeated the other French entrant in the category; she was aiming to deliver yet another title for Uzbekistan, whose results in Sofia have already been remarkable.
Feuillet--Nguimgo’s path to the final included victories over Ya-Wei I Ssu Tan Ta (TPE), Barbare Gelashvili (GEO) and Zuzana Podzemna (CZE). Nigmatova, meanwhile, had overcome Astan Sacko (FRA), Elina Dilger (GER), Hatice Tuana Balci (TUR) and Kristyna Kaszperova (CZE).
From the very start of the final, it was clear that Nigmatova’s raw power was on another level. Feuillet--Nguimgo defended bravely and refused to give in easily but the Uzbek judoka’s strength proved overwhelming. With a single explosive attack, Nigmatova launched her opponent for a massive ippon, sealing victory in emphatic style. It was the fifth gold medal of these championships for Uzbekistan, underlining their dominance.
In the first bronze medal contest, Akmarzhan Turdazhieva (KGZ) faced Kristyna Kaszperova (CZE). Kaszperova struck early with a beautifully timed ura-nage for yuko, but from then on she had to withstand heavy pressure from her Kyrgyz opponent. Holding firm, she managed the contest intelligently and preserved her advantage to secure her place on the podium.
The second bronze medal contest gave Japan another opportunity to add to their tally, as Misuzu Katsumata (JPN) met Zuzana Podzemna (CZE). The contest had an unusual rhythm, with Katsumata attacking relentlessly but without putting her opponent in serious danger. Podzemna, using her reach to keep the Japanese judoka at a distance, even created a few dangerous situations of her own. Yet in the closing seconds, she was caught flat-footed as Katsumata swept in with ko-uchi-gari, driving her to the tatami and clinching the bronze.
Final (+70 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (+70 kg)
