Euskal Selekzioa secured victories in seven out of eight contested matches during a day of the world championship across Argentina and Uruguay.
Ekhi Irribarria Claims Straight-Set Victory in Individual Hand Pelota
In individual hand pelota, Ekhi Irribarria defeated France’s Itoiz 10-3, 10-1. The opening set featured early tension as a nervous Irribarria faced an aggressive opponent before establishing control. The second set proved far more straightforward as the Basque player cruised to the finish.
Eñaut Lizeaga and Beñat Garmendia Overcome Early Pressure Against Mexico
Eñaut Lizeaga and Beñat Garmendia defeated Mexico’s Guero and Kevin 10-3, 10-4 in hand pairs. The Mexican duo applied heavy early pressure with active play and spin shots before Lizeaga and Garmendia broke away from a 4-4 tie. Lizeaga’s volleys and pace ultimately dictated the remainder of the match.
Germán Elkoro and Edorta De Anta Debut with Authority in Trinquete
Germán Elkoro and Edorta De Anta opened their parapelota trinquete campaign by defeating Argentina’s team—featuring Aldo Serra, later substituted by Franco Herrera, alongside Guillermo Poggio—with scores of 15-8 and 15-3. Despite initial nerves and limited preparation time on the trinquete surface, the Basque pair established an early lead and sustained it through both sets.
Esteban Gaubeka and Imanol Ibáñez Secure Pala Corta Win Over Chile
Esteban Gaubeka and Imanol Ibáñez defeated Chile’s Domínguez and Saez 15-3, 15-6 in pala corta. While Chile mounted a stronger challenge in the second set, the Basque duo maintained a clear numerical advantage to close out the match.
Miren Larrarte Advances Via Walkover While Xuban Lopetegi and Oier Iturbe Fall in Xare
In women’s frontball, Miren Larrarte claimed a 10-0, 10-0 walkover victory after Cuba’s representative failed to appear due to the delegation having problems leaving the island. Meanwhile, in xare, Xuban Lopetegi and Oier Iturbe dropped their match to Argentina’s Correa and Gil with scores of 6-15 and 11-15.
Colonia del Sacramento Hosts Cesta Punta Openers and Official Inauguration
Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay served as the venue for the 54-meter fronton matches and the official tournament inauguration. The ceremony drew Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi, alongside Euskal Pilota Selekzioa President Joxemari Mitxelena and board members Oier Zearra, Ibon Taberna, Peru Egurbide, and Alaitz Badiola. Prior to the proceedings, Elaia Gogenola and Maia Goikoetxea defeated France’s Lucille and Romane 15-1, 15-7. Following the inauguration, Xabier Barandika and Unai Lekerikabeaskoa defeated Spain’s Hormaetxea and Atain 15-3, 15-12 in the men’s league phase.
