The Liégeoise left the tatami clapping her hands, not with joy, but with disappointment, because she undoubtedly had a “shot to play” against this opponent, whom she had already beaten three years ago. But then, a second of inattention and she found herself on the ground.
“I thought I could counter it, but I didn’t have enough high-intensity training to do the right thing.”
The Portuguese’s movement, which Gaby Willems was unable to counter…
Previously, Gaby had dismissed the Russian Taimazova, European vice-champion and Olympic bronze medalist… She logically took a little time to get into this fight, conceding two penalties. But, after an intervention by the medical service for the Russian, she managed to return her rival to the ground. “It was great to get back into this competitive atmosphere, even if I had some apprehensions. I was tense when I got on the tatami. You can’t erase your fear of getting hurt like that. But, little by little, I felt that I was freeing myself and I seized the opportunity that presented itself to put ippon on him.”
Gaby Willems seized the opportunity that presented itself against the Russian…
Given the quality of his opponent, currently 11th in the world, this victory is a good sign. “Frankly, I would have preferred to have two or three fights because I need them. After so much time without competition, I need to find my bearings. But I will remember the positive: I left this first competition without injury and I can continue. I am registered in Tajikistan and Kazakhstan, two Grand Slams, before the World Cup. I hope I free myself mentally and can show what I’m really capable of.”
Gaby Willems’ objective is, in fact, to qualify for the Paris Games, where she will have to be at her best level.
Judo: Gabriella Willems at the Euro? A burst of brilliance and then gone!
In -63 kg, Alessia Corrao was less happy since the Liégeoise lost to the Czech Zachova (23 years old/n°22), whom she pushed to overtime where she was unfortunately inflicted with a third penalty, for unlawful custody, while she attacked.
In -81 kg, we expected a lot, perhaps too much, from Jarne Duyck. Opposed for his entry into the running against the Portuguese Egutidze (28 years old/n°54), bronze medalist at the 2021 World Cup, he also forced his opponent into overtime. But he gave in…
2024-04-27 05:15:22
#Gaby #Willems #lucid #Euro #judo #lack #training
