Picture Credit: Twitter
Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen defeated Mozambique's Helena Ismael Bagao in the Women’s 48kg-50kg (Light Fly) - Round of 16 match to progress to the quarterfinals of the event at the ongoing 2022 Commonwealth Games. The reigning world champion, who won the world championships and Strandja memorial gold earlier this year, outclassed Bagao at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Solihull to prevail by RSC (referee stops contest).
With Bagao trying to catch Nikhat Zareen out early, the Indian capitalised on the openings and gave a flurry of right hooks on her opponent. Swift footwork also allowed the Indian boxer to stay out of the Bagao's reach. Zareen completed the first round with a series of 1-2 punches and appeared firmly in possession of her bout.
It was a matter of match management for the Indian in the third and final round and Zareen steered through with comfort. Such was the Indian's sovereignty that the referee stopped the bout with 40 seconds left and handed Zareen a triumph.
Zareen will next face reigning Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Troy Garton of New Zealand in the quarterfinals, where a win will secure her podium finish.