India has advanced to the quarterfinals of the women’s team table tennis competition at the Paris 2024 Olympics by overcoming Romania 3-2 in a thrilling round of 16 match on August 5. Star player Manika Batra was instrumental in this victory, winning both of her singles matches.
Match Highlights
The match began on a strong note for India. The women’s doubles pair of Sreeja Akula and Archana Girish Kamath secured the first point by defeating Romania’s Adina Diaconu and Elizabeta Samara 3-0, with set scores of 11-9, 12-10, and 11-7.
In her first singles match, Manika Batra extended India’s lead by defeating Bernadette Szőcs 3-0. Her set scores were 11-5, 11-7, and 11-7, showcasing her dominance on the table.
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Romania’s Comeback
Romania responded strongly, winning the next two matches. Sreeja Akula narrowly lost 2-3 to Elizabeta Samara in a gripping contest. The set scores were 11-8, 4-11, 11-7, 6-11, and 11-8. In the following match, Bernadette Szőcs bounced back from her earlier defeat by defeating Archana Girish Kamath 3-1, with set scores of 11-5, 8-11, 11-7, and 11-9.
Decisive Fifth Match
With the tie at 2-2, the final match was a do-or-die scenario for India. Manika Batra stepped up and clinched the victory by defeating Samara 3-0. The set scores were 11-5, 11-9, and 11-9, ensuring India’s place in the quarterfinals.
Next Steps
India will face the winner of the match between Germany and the USA in the quarterfinals. The team’s strong performance and Manika Batra’s crucial wins have set the stage for an exciting continuation of the tournament.
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