The reigning European Champions have had a tough call in these Olympics, but their match against Olofua/Opeyori resulted in a successful outcome.
The ROC representatives arrived in Tokyo for what would be their third Olympics. It has not been a bad year for the duo, who claimed the title of European Champions just a few months ago. Vladimir Ivanov and Ivan Sozonov did not get off to the great start they surely had hoped for in Tokyo, but today’s match might have served to put a smile on their faces.
Difficult start
In their opening match of the Tokyo Olympics, the ROC’s faced Kim Astrup/Anders Skaarup Rasmussen. The Danes were not easy opponents, taking control of the first game but the Russian pair managed to step up their game, just not enough to prevent Astrup/Rasmussen from winning the match in straight games.
The next challenge on their way to make it out of the group were Hiroyuki Endo/Yuta Watanabe, Japan. Ivanov/Sozonov gave it their all and almost made it, but the clash ended up in a loss for the duo, 19-21 19-21. The pair was happy about their performance despite the result and found motivation for their next match.
- We hope we can continue like this for the upcoming tournaments. We want to win our next match, Sozonov said.
A potential last show on court
It seems like Sozonov got what he wanted, as today’s match finished with a gratifying result for him and his doubles partner. The ROC representatives were in control of the game all throughout the match and posed a serious threat to their Nigerians opponents Godwin Olofua/Anoluwapo Juwon Opeyori.
- It was tough. Very tough. We were playing against the best players also. We were countering Ivanov's shots and keeping control, especially of Sozonov's shots as he's left-handed, Olofua stated.
Ivanov/Sozonov finally got away with a win after two losses. This could have potentially been their last match so it was certainly a special triumph, and it remains to be seen what the awaits for the two-times European Champions.