Bulgaria’s Svetlana Staneva has made an impressive start in the Olympic boxing tournament at the Paris 2024 Games, securing a decisive victory in the 57 kg weight category.
Staneva advanced by defeating Ireland’s Michaela Walsh via unanimous decision, setting the stage for her next bout against the controversial Taiwanese athlete, Lin Yu-Ting.
The Bulgarian boxer showcased her skill and strategy in the ring, beginning with a series of feints and right straights from a reverse guard stance.
Under the guidance of coach Borislav Georgiev, Staneva displayed superior footwork, keeping Walsh on the defensive. The Moroccan referee intervened early, prompting both fighters to be more active as the first round progressed.
The initial round saw minimal action, with both boxers focusing on clinches rather than landing significant punches.
Walsh maintained a long distance, and Staneva’s attempts to land right straights were largely ineffective. Despite the lack of decisive blows, the round was awarded to Staneva with a score of 5-0.
In the second round, Staneva’s strategy of counterattacking paid off. Despite Walsh’s sporadic aggressive bursts, the Irish boxer remained largely passive, allowing Staneva to capitalize on her forehands.
Walsh occasionally advanced with both hands, but Staneva’s measured responses kept her in control. The second round concluded with another 5-0 score in favor of Staneva.
Adhering to her coach’s advice, Staneva avoided unnecessary risks and maintained her distance with her right hand. As the match continued, Walsh’s behavior became increasingly erratic, including a dirty clinch 40 seconds before the end.
Although Walsh landed one notable punch while Staneva was momentarily unguarded, it was not enough to alter the outcome. The victory was firmly awarded to Staneva, solidifying her place in the next round.
Staneva’s upcoming bout will see her face Lin Yu-Ting, who gained notoriety last year after failing a gender test. Despite the controversy, the International Olympic Committee allowed Lin to compete in Paris 2024.
Staneva and Lin have a history, having faced each other at the World Championships in New Delhi, where Staneva lost in the quarterfinals. However, following Lin’s disqualification, Staneva was awarded the bronze medal.
Svetlana Staneva’s achievements in boxing are notable. She is the European champion from Belgrade 2024 and has won silver medals at the European Championships in Bucharest 2014 and Budva 2022.
Additionally, she secured a bronze medal at the World Championships in New Delhi last year. Her performance at the European Games in Poland in 2023 earned her a silver medal, which secured her qualification for the Paris 2024 Games.
Staneva’s success in her opening bout has raised hopes for a strong campaign in Paris. Her disciplined approach, coupled with her previous experience and accolades, positions her as a formidable contender in the Olympic boxing tournament.
As she prepares for her next match against Lin Yu-Ting, the boxing world will be watching closely to see if Staneva can continue her victorious path and achieve Olympic glory for Bulgaria.