The bronze medal contests also featured high-calibre match-ups. Dandara Camillo (BRA), the only non-European in the final block, faced world number one Lila Mazzarino (FRA), while Alexandra Riabchenko (IJF) took on Jovana Stjepanovic (SRB) in another exciting clash of styles.
With four nations represented and both established favourites and breakthrough talent on display, the -78 kg final block delivered a fitting close to an intense day of competition.
Final
Maria Hanstede (NED) vs Mathilda Sophie Niemeyer (GER)
It was an intense final that remained balanced for much of the contest before Hanstede broke the deadlock with a yuko near the edge of the mat from a counter-attack. With just a minute remaining, Niemeyer searched for an opening but found no way through and Maria Hanstede claimed gold for the Netherlands.
Bronze medal contests
Alexandra Riabchenko (IJF) vs Jovana Stjepanovic (SRB)
Riabchenko opened the scoring with an immobilisation that lasted 19 seconds, just one short of ippon, after an excellent turnover into sankaku. It was enough to earn her the bronze medal.
Dandara Camillo (BRA) vs Lila Mazzarino (FRA)
After 50 seconds, each judoka received their first shido, with Mazzarino applying slightly more pressure. Moments later, a second penalty was issued to them, adding tension on both sides. The fight eventually turned to the ground, where Dandara Camillo executed a powerful shime-waza that left the French judoka no chance. Another well-earned medal for Brazil’s impressive delegation.
Final (-78 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-78 kg)
