Portuguese kickboxer Catarina Dias secured at least a bronze medal at the WAKO World Championships, overcoming initial jitters to defeat Finnish opponent Elli Eloranta in her opening bout.
The 27-year-old athlete, whose status was bolstered by a gold medal win at the World Games in August, navigated a challenging first fight with a controlled and authoritative performance.
Dias acknowledged the pressure of starting a new competition against an unfamiliar, dynamic opponent. She described the relief that came with initiating the fight.
“When we land the first blow, everything disappears,” Dias stated, explaining how the initial tension was released with her victory. “I was very happy with my victory.”
Her corner provided crucial strategic guidance during the match. They advised her to manage the fight, avoid clashes, and conserve energy for upcoming rounds, particularly after establishing an early lead.
“They said I was winning, that it was controlled, not to go for a clash, to save myself for what’s coming,” she recounted, noting that just 40 seconds in, she was told to focus on counter-punching and protecting her points.
Hailing from Portugal’s Trás-os-Montes region, Dias has now guaranteed her country a podium finish in the event. She will next face Israel’s Polina Grossman in the semi-finals, with a chance to compete for the gold medal.