World Championships Senior
History Made in Pamplona as Finalists Set After Thrilling Day at Karate World Cup
2024-11-23
The second day of the 2024 Karate World Cup in Pamplona delivered memorable moments of the best Karate with finalists confirmed in all categories. Portugal and Japan in Female Team Kata, Japan and the United States in Female Team Kumite, Turkiye and Japan in Male Team Kata, and Iran and Egypt in Male Team Kumite will clash for the coveted Karate World Cup trophy.
Female Team Kata: Portugal Stuns, Japan Dominates
Portugal pulled off the upset of the event by defeating Italy, the current World Championships runners-up, with scores of 41.70 to 40.90. This victory secured Portugal’s first-ever final appearance and placed the Portuguese side in the elite of the sport in Kata.
Meanwhile, Japan showcased their dominance, defeating hosts Spain, the current bronze medallists, 43.60 to 41.60. The clash for the title on Sunday will be Japan’s 19th consecutive final as the Japanese side has always qualified for the clash for gold in the category.
The final between Japan and Portugal is set for Sunday at 15:15, while Spain and Italy will face off for bronze at 15:00.
Female Team Kumite: Japan and United States Make History
Japan overcame defending world champions Spain in a convincing 2-0 victory, aiming to reclaim a title they last held in 2006.
The United States made history by reaching their first-ever final in Team Kumite, defeating powerhouse Italy 2-1. Their achievement and first-ever final reflects the remarkable growth of karate in the country and the tremendous popularity of the sport in the United States.
The gold medal match between Japan and the United States is scheduled for 12:15 on Sunday, with Spain and Italy battling for bronze at 11:45.
Male Team Kata: Turkiye and Japan to Face Off
Turkiye secured their second consecutive final by edging out Italy with scores of 43.20 to 42.30. They now aim to improve on their silver finish from last year.
Japan continued their reign of dominance, defeating hosts Spain 44.10 to 42.60. The five-time consecutive world champions look to extend their streak and aim at their 14th World title.
The final of Japan against Turkiye is scheduled for Sunday at 11:15. The bronze match between Spain and Italy will take place at 11:00.
Male Team Kumite: Iran and Egypt to Clash for Gold
Iran cruised past Japan with a decisive 3-0 win, positioning themselves to reclaim the title they last won in 2018.
Egypt demonstrated their strength by defeating 2021 World champions Italy 3-1, securing a second consecutive final appearance. They now aim for their first-ever world title.
The final between Iran and Egypt is set for 16:45 on Sunday, with Japan and Italy contesting bronze at 15:45.
The stage is now set for an exciting final day of the Karate World Cup, as the world’s top karateka will clash for glory and the historic first trophy of the Karate World Cup.
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