Eljan Hajiyev Triumphs in Men’s -90 kg Judo Elimination Round at Paris 2024

In a thrilling encounter during the Men’s -90 kg Elimination Round of 32 at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Azerbaijan’s Eljan Hajiyev secured a decisive victory over Türkiye's Mihael Zgank. The match took place at the prestigious Champ-de-Mars Arena on July 31, 2024, and showcased the exceptional skills and determination of both athletes.

Hajiyev, who weighed in at 89.8 kg and ranked 18th in the world, demonstrated his prowess with superior techniques and strategic moves. He utilized the O-soto-otoshi technique effectively, earning a Waza-ari (WAZ) point at 4:49 in the match, which was crucial for his advancement. The match ended with a duration of 4 minutes and 50 seconds, reflecting the intense competition between the two judokas.

Mihael Zgank, representing Türkiye, entered the contest with an impressive background, having recently secured first place at the Paris Grand Slam 2024. Despite his robust performance and a bodyweight of 89.6 kg, he was unable to overcome Hajiyev's tactics, resulting in a loss. Zgank, who holds a world ranking of 8, faced a strong challenge but showcased commendable spirit and resilience throughout the match.

The officiating was led by referee Raul Camacho Perez from Spain, who ensured the contest adhered to the Olympic standards. The match was characterized by various penalties and tactical maneuvers, highlighting the high stakes and pressure of Olympic judo.

As the competition progresses, fans eagerly anticipate Hajiyev's next match, hoping for further success from the Azerbaijani athlete in his quest for Olympic glory.