The world of Taekwondo recently made headlines with the holding of the world championship in South Korea. Unfortunately, none of the four Congolese athletes, nicknamed the Leopards, managed to win a medal during this event.
Henock Luvualu Kangu still managed to reach the quarter-finals of the under 58 kg category, but he was eliminated by the Japanese Yamanouchi Ren. A disappointing defeat after an impressive victory against Englishman Callahan Elliot, a four-time world champion.
Grace Banza, for her part, was eliminated in the first round in the under 76 kg category. She was beaten by Argentina’s Seko Fakundo, ending her medal hopes.
Kima Mwana Nzambi, the third representative from the DRC, managed to hold out until the extension of the first round. Unfortunately, after a draw in regulation time, he was finally beaten by Argentinian Quertia Mathias.
Finally, Pangi Tshimanga Jonathan distinguished himself by reaching the quarter-finals. He qualified by beating Korean Kim Seong Jun, but was eliminated in the semi-final by Argentinian Vincent Renso.
In the end, the Congolese Leopards did not win any medals during this Taekwondo world championship. Despite their combativeness, they were confronted with formidable adversaries from all over the world.
However, it is important to highlight their courageous journeys and their determination to represent their country. Participating in a world championship is already a great achievement in itself, and it opens up prospects for the future.
The Congolese Leopards will certainly be keen to prepare more for the next competitions and to aspire to even more remarkable performances. Taekwondo in the Democratic Republic of Congo will continue to flourish thanks to these passionate and determined athletes.
Results of the Congolese Leopards:
– Two victories in the round of 16.
– Four defeats in the quarter-finals.
– No medals won.
The ITF Taekwondo World Championship in South Korea closed on Sunday September 10, giving way to new challenges and new opportunities for Congolese athletes. Let’s hope that their next participation in an international competition will allow them to finally win this long-awaited medal.