Maria Celia Laborde Triumphs Over Guo Zongying in Women's -48 kg Judo Elimination Round

In a highly anticipated match during the Women's -48 kg Judo Elimination Round of 32, Maria Celia Laborde from the United States faced off against China's Guo Zongying on July 27, 2024. The contest took place at the Champ-de-Mars Arena, with both athletes eager to secure their place in the next round.

Laborde, ranked 11th in the world, showcased her skill and determination by defeating Guo, who was ranked 20th, with a final score reflecting her superior performance. The match lasted for 3 minutes and 11 seconds, during which Laborde scored a total of 2 points, while Guo was unable to score any points.

The match began with both competitors displaying their techniques, but it was Laborde who quickly gained the upper hand. She secured a Waza-ari point at 1:07, followed by another Waza-ari at 3:11, solidifying her lead. Guo tried to mount a comeback but received penalties that hampered her performance, ultimately leading to her defeat.

Referee Ofer Ben Zvi from Israel officiated the match, ensuring fair play throughout the contest. As the match concluded, Laborde celebrated her victory while Guo expressed her disappointment but remained proud of her efforts. This victory allows Laborde to progress to the next phase of the tournament, where she will aim for a medal.

This match not only highlighted the intense competition in women's judo but also showcased the sportsmanship and determination of both athletes. With the Olympics continuing, fans can look forward to more thrilling judo matches in the following rounds.