Picture Credit: Twitter
Indian fans can finally heave a sigh of relief and have something to be happy about. After Mary Kom's shocking defeat to Colombia's Ingrit Valencia, chances of a medal in boxing looked grim. But Lovlina Borgohain had some other plans. The 23-year-old Indian boxer has made sure that there is an addition to India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics. India has been unable to secure a medal after Mirabai Chanu's silver in weightlifting. But on Day 7, the news from the center confirmed that India has one more medal coming their way.
Boxer Lovlina Borgohain on Friday defeated China Taipei's Nien-Chin Chen in the quarterfinals of the women's welterweight (69-75 kg) category. She has now reached the semi-finals and with this win, she has assured India of at least a bronze medal in boxing. Borgohain defeated Nien-Chin by a split decision of 4-1. Five judges gave split decisions in the first round but following two rounds, all judges unanimously approved Lovlina's dominance.
Watch: How Lovlina celebrated after assuring India of their second medal
The Indian boxer took the first round 3-2 and created pressure on her Taipei opponent. Lovlina carried her momentum in the second round as well and took the charge but she also smartly defended Nien-Chin's punches with her excellent footwork. She maintained her rhythm in the third round and secured a medal for India. It will be the third medal for India in boxing at the Olympics. Lovlina also become only the second woman after Mary Kom to qualify for a medal round.
'Go for Glory, go for gold': Coach Das wants Lovlina to go for gold
Prashant Kumar Das, the coach of Indian pugilist Lovlina, said he is confident about her winning a gold medal. He said that he is sure that the 23-year old will do good in the next round and will bring back a gold medal. “I would like to congratulate Lovlina for winning the quarterfinal bout 4-1 and now she has qualified for the semifinal. I am sure that she will do good in the next stage and I am confident she will bring back a gold medal after winning the final. I just pray that God gives her strength and more power. I just want to tell this to Lovlina---go for Glory go for gold,” said Das.
Lovlina Borgohain will face Busenaz Surmeneli of Turkey in the semi-finals.