In her semi-final, Reis took control initially but failed to capitalise on her chances, allowing Shirakane to counter twice and book her ticket to the final. Andrade, meanwhile, was caught in a perfectly timed hold-down from Abdirova, who claimed victory by ippon, ending Brazil’s hopes for gold.
The gold medal contest featured Dana Abdirova (KAZ) and Mio Shirakane (JPN), a fitting conclusion to a day that highlighted the precision and discipline of Asian judo. The bronze medals were decided between Jevgenija Gajic (SLO) and Gyovanna Andrade (BRA), and Asuka Ueno (JPN) and Bianca Reis (BRA).
The title contest between Dana Abdirova (KAZ) and Mio Shirakane (JPN) started cautiously, with one penalty on each side. The contest was balanced evenly until Shirakane, drawing on Japan’s trademark groundwork, secured a decisive osae-komi for ippon, earning another junior world gold medal for Japan.
Bronze Medal Contests
Asuka Ueno (JPN) vs Bianca Reis (BRA)
Ueno received an early penalty but held firm, later turning the tide with a controlled hold-down, scoring yuko and adding another medal for Japan.
Jevgenija Gajic (SLO) vs Gyovanna Andrade (BRA)
Displaying sharp timing and power, Andrade countered her opponent’s attack with a perfectly executed o-soto-gari, securing ippon and delivering a well-deserved bronze for Brazil, capping an excellent day for the South American nation.
The –57 kg category reflected the international balance of emerging judo talent perfectly, with Japan’s technique, Kazakhstan’s determination and Brazil’s spirit lighting up an unforgettable first day in Lima.
Final (-57 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-57 kg)
