Azerbaijan's Magomedov Triumphs in Men's Freestyle 97kg Quarterfinals at 2024 Olympics

On August 10, 2024, the Men's Freestyle 97kg quarterfinals took place at the prestigious Champ-de-Mars Arena during the Summer Olympics held in Paris. The match featured two formidable wrestlers: Magomedkhan Magomedov from Azerbaijan and Zbigniew Mateusz Baranowski from Poland. From the outset, Magomedov showcased his tactical prowess and technical skills, dominating the mat with aggressive moves and strategic plays.

Magomedov, donning the red bib, started the match strong, quickly scoring points and establishing an early lead. His performance was marked by impressive technique and agility, as he utilized various maneuvers to keep Baranowski on the defensive. By the end of the first period, Magomedov had already secured a score of 1, while Baranowski struggled to find his rhythm, finishing the period without any points.

As the second period unfolded, Magomedov maintained his momentum, scoring an additional 7 points, bringing his total to 7. Baranowski managed to score 2 points but was unable to match Magomedov's intensity and skill. Ultimately, the match concluded with a score of 7-2 in favor of Magomedov, confirming his place in the semifinals and showcasing Azerbaijan's strong wrestling tradition.

The match was officiated by a panel of experienced referees, including Belkacem Trai from Algeria, Judge Linn Sjostrom from Sweden, and Mat Chairman Casey Goessl from the USA. Their oversight ensured a fair and competitive atmosphere, allowing both athletes to perform at their best.

This victory not only highlights Magomedov's individual talent but also adds to Azerbaijan's growing prominence in the world of wrestling, setting the stage for further achievements in the Olympic Games.