–78 kg: Lobnik Dominates to Capture Gold for Slovenia / IJF.org

The women’s –78 kg category was marked by strong technical displays and surprising upsets. Metka Lobnik (SLO) lived up to her status as top seed, advancing confidently with clean and efficient judo. On the other side of the draw, France’s Kaila Issoufi produced one of the day’s most remarkable performances, eliminating former world champion Inbar Lanir early on. The final promised to be a duel of precision, timing and tactical mastery.

Final, Metka Lobnik (SLO) vs Kaila Issoufi (FRA).

Final

Metka Lobnik (SLO) vs Kaila Issoufi (FRA)

After just over a minute, Issoufi received a first shido for a false attack as she tried to escape Lobnik’s forward pressure. The Slovenian judoka maintained control, gradually tightening her grip and imposing her rhythm. During a transition to the ground, Lobnik freed her trapped leg and successfully held Issoufi down for ippon, claiming the gold medal with authority.

Gold medallist, Metka Lobnik (SLO).

Bronze Medal Contests

Coralie Godbout (CAN) vs Karol Gimenes (BRA)

Coralie Godbout allowed no opportunity for her opponent to take control. A first waza-ari from a well-timed o-soto-gari gave her a clear advantage, which she confirmed moments later with a hold-down for ippon. It was the third medal for Canada in Lima.

Coralie Godbout (CAN) vs Karol Gimenes (BRA)

Brenda Olaya (COL) vs Marie Branser (GUI)

For Marie Branser, representing Guinea, the dream of a medal seemed within reach. Yet, in the last twenty seconds, Brenda Olaya (COL) executed a clean o-soto-gari, scoring yuko to seal the victory and secure the bronze medal for Colombia.

Bronze medal contest, Brenda Olaya (COL) vs Marie Branser (GUI)

Medals, cheques and flowers were presented by Ms Yuri Alvear, Member of the IJF Sport Commission, Education Director of the Panamerican Judo Confederation and Three time World Champion, and Mr Gary Takemoto, Referee Director of the Panamerican Judo Confederation

Final (-78 kg)

LOBNIK Metka (SLO) vs ISSOUFI Kaila (FRA)

Bronze Medal Fights (-78 kg)

GODBOUT Coralie (CAN) vs GIMENES Karol (BRA)

OLAYA Brenda (COL) vs BRANSER Marie (GUI)

Final Results (-78 kg)

1. LOBNIK Metka (SLO)

2. ISSOUFI Kaila (FRA)

3. GODBOUT Coralie (CAN)

3. OLAYA Brenda (COL)

5. GIMENES Karol (BRA)

5. BRANSER Marie (GUI)

7. DUDENAITE Migle Julija (LTU)

7. KRAPU Emma (FIN)