The 22 Portuguese judokas had a performance without notable outcomes in the individual competition, which was held between Wednesday and Saturday, but on Sunday, 8 October, Portugal enjoyed an afternoon of triumph with the ascent to the podium.

In the opening round of the team competition, Guilherme Silva (+90 kg), Maria Silveira (-57 kg), Otari Kvantidze (-73 kg), and Pedro Lima (-90 kg) all defeated Germany (4–2).

With fresh victories from Maria Silveira, Otari Kvantidze, Pedro Lima, and Tas Pina (-70 kg), the squad defeated Kazakhstan, this time 4-1.

In the semi-finals, the team lost to France (4-2) with victories coming solely from Pedro Lima and Maria Silveira, who has shown to be one of Portuguese judo's greatest prospects. The team then lost the bronze medal match.

With a 4-2 win against Uzbekistan in the contest for third place and victories from Tas Pina, Pedro Lima, Fábia Conceiço (+70 kg), and Maria Silveira, the medal was awarded “at the expense” of Uzbekistan.

Japan defeated France 4-0 in the championship match to win the gold medal and become the world junior team champions.

Author

A passionate Irish journalist with a love for cycling, politics and of course Portugal especially their sausage rolls.

Rory Mc Ginn