Aira Villegas guarantees second medal for the Philippines at the Paris Olympics
Filipina boxer Aira Villegas has guaranteed the Philippines its second medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics after defeating France’s Wassila Lkhadiri in the quarterfinals of the women’s 50kg division.
Villegas displayed exceptional skill and determination, securing a split decision victory over the home crowd favorite.
Aira advanced to the semifinals with a 3-2 split decision victory, earning scores of 29-28, 29-28, 27-30, 28-29, and 29-28. This win ensures that the Filipino boxer will bring home at least a bronze medal.
The match began with Villegas showcasing her defensive prowess. Her quick footwork and strategic counterpunches set the tone early, giving her a slight edge over Lkhadiri.
The intensity escalated in the second round as both fighters exchanged fierce blows. Lkhadiri found her rhythm, with three judges marking the round in her favor. By the end of the second round, three of the scorecards were tied, with each boxer having one judge voting in their favor, setting the stage for a tense final round.
In the decisive third round, both Villegas and Lkhadiri engaged in rugged boxing, struggling to land combination punches amidst the frenzied exchanges. Villegas bided her time, waiting for openings to land successive jabs and solid hits. Her tactical approach paid off, allowing her to edge out Lkhadiri in a close call.
The Filipino boxer’s journey to the podium has been nothing short of inspiring. Her victories over Morocco’s Yasmine Mouttaki and Algeria’s Roumaysa Boualam have showcased her talent and resilience.
Villegas will now face Turkey’s Buse Naz Çakıroğlu in the semifinals, with a chance to fight for the gold medal. The entire nation is behind her as she continues to make history for Philippine boxing.
