Ana Laura Portuondo Isasi Falls to Izayana Marenco in Women's +78 kg Judo Elimination Round

The Women's +78 kg Elimination Round of 32 was a highly anticipated match at the Paris 2024 Olympics, held on August 2, 2024, at the Champ-de-Mars Arena. This round featured two formidable athletes, Ana Laura Portuondo Isasi from Canada and Izayana Marenco from Nicaragua, both eager to advance in the competition.

The match commenced at 10:24 AM local time, under the watchful eye of referee Vyacheslav Pereteyko from Uzbekistan. Portuondo Isasi, weighing in at 92.1 kg, was ranked 56th in the world, while Marenco, at 107.6 kg, held the 77th position. The strategies and techniques displayed were nothing short of thrilling.

As the contest unfolded, it was Marenco who took control early on. With precise techniques, she executed a Sumi-otoshi at 2:07 minutes into the match, scoring an IPP, which effectively ended the bout with a decisive win for Nicaragua. Marenco’s performance highlighted her agility and tactical prowess, showcasing a remarkable ability to capitalize on her opponent's movements.

Portuondo Isasi, despite her loss, had shown promise earlier in the season, clinching 2nd place at the Panamerican and Oceania Championships in 2024. Her journey in this competition, however, came to an abrupt end against Marenco, who advanced with a victory that will undoubtedly boost her confidence in subsequent rounds.

The match ended officially at 10:30 AM, concluding a contest filled with intensity and sportsmanship. This encounter not only highlighted the competitive spirit of the athletes but also set the stage for future matchups in the judo discipline at the Paris 2024 Olympics. With both athletes showcasing their skills, the round served as a reminder of the dedication and hard work that defines the Olympic spirit.