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[Milica Nikolic]

The semifinal line-up in the Under 19 Boys Teams event at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar is complete. France will face Poland, while Spain will take on Romania, with all four teams now guaranteed at least a bronze medal.

Top seeds France secured their place in the semifinals after edging sixth seeds Italy 3-2 in a dramatic quarterfinal.

Nathan LAM gave France the opening point with a straight-games victory over Francesco TREVISAN, winning 11-9, 11-9, 11-7. Italy responded through Danilo FASO, who produced a commanding straight-games victory over Nathan PILARD to level the tie.

Antoine NOIRAULT restored France’s advantage with another assured performance, defeating Giacomo IZZO in straight games, 11-8, 11-9, 11-7.

FASO then kept Italy’s hopes alive in a five-game battle against LAM. The French player won the opening game, but FASO took the next two before LAM forced a decider with an 11-4 victory in the fourth. The Italian held his nerve in the fifth, prevailing 11-8 to level the tie at 2-2.

PILARD delivered when it mattered most, defeating TREVISAN in straight games, 11-6, 11-8, 11-7, to send France into the last four.

Second seeds Poland booked their place in the semifinals with a 3-0 victory over fifth seeds Sweden. Samuel MICHNA gave Poland the opening point after a dramatic five-game battle against Adam WALLIN. MICHNA dominated the opening game 11-2, but WALLIN responded by edging the second 15-13 and taking the third 11-7 to move ahead. The Polish player recovered strongly, winning the final two games 11-6, 11-6 to complete the comeback.

Marcel BLASZCZYK doubled Poland’s advantage with a commanding straight-games victory over William BERGENBLOCK, winning 11-6, 11-5, 11-5.

Mateusz SAKOWICZ then sealed Poland’s place in the semifinals after another five-game encounter. Noa DAHLSTROM took the opening game 11-6, but SAKOWICZ responded by winning the next two 11-5, 11-4. DAHLSTROM forced a decider with an 11-9 victory in the fourth before SAKOWICZ held his nerve to take the fifth 11-9 and complete Poland’s 3-0 success.

Ninth seeds Romania continued their impressive run by defeating 11th seeds Austria 3-1 to reach the semifinals.

Julian RZIHAUSCHEK gave Austria the opening point with a straight-games victory over Robert PODAR. The Austrian edged a dramatic second game 16-14 before closing out the match 11-6 in the third.

Romania responded immediately through Robert ISTRATE, who defeated Petr HODINA in straight games. After taking the opening two games comfortably, ISTRATE held his nerve in a tight third game, winning it 13-11 to level the tie. Andrei TIBIRNA then put Romania ahead with a commanding straight-games victory over Tobias HOLD.

ISTRATE sealed Romania’s place in the semifinals with another outstanding performance against RZIHAUSCHEK. After dropping the second game, the Romanian regained control, winning the third and fourth 11-6, 11-8 to complete Romania’s 3-1 victory and secure a place on the medal rostrum.

Fourth seeds Spain completed the semifinal line-up after edging third seeds Slovakia 3-2 in another thrilling quarterfinal.

Luca KHIDASHELI gave Spain the opening point with a four-game victory over Damian FLORO. The Spaniard controlled the first and third games before holding his nerve in a tense fourth, winning 16-14.

Samuel ARPAS levelled the tie for Slovakia by defeating Francesc CARRERA in four games. After dropping the second game, ARPAS regained control to close out the match 11-7, 11-3.

Slovakia then moved ahead as Pavol KOKAVEC produced a commanding straight-games victory over Dario SALCEDO, leaving his team just one point away from the semifinals.

KHIDASHELI responded for Spain, defeating ARPAS in straight games to level the tie at 2-2 and force a deciding fifth match.

The final singles delivered another thriller. CARRERA recovered from losing the opening game to edge FLORO in five games. After FLORO won the third 12-10 to move within one game of victory, the Spaniard fought back to take the fourth 11-9 before sealing the decider 13-11, completing Spain’s dramatic comeback and booking a place in the semifinals.

The post France, Poland, Spain and Romania Secure Under 19 Boys Team Medals first appeared on European table tennis union.

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[Milica Nikolic]

The semifinal line-up in the Under 15 Girls Teams event at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar is complete. Sweden will face France, while Germany will meet Switzerland.

Germany booked their place in the semifinals with a commanding 3-0 victory over hosts Portugal. Amelie Guzi JIA gave Germany the opening point with a four-game victory over Maria RUIVO. After the players shared the opening two games, JIA regained control to take the next two 11-8 and 11-9.

Anna WALTER then doubled Germany’s advantage with a dominant straight-games victory over Irina SILVA.

Germany completed the clean sweep in the doubles as JIA and WALTER defeated RUIVO and SILVA in straight games. The German pair edged a tight opening game 12-10 before taking firm control of the next two, winning 11-6 and 11-7 to secure their place in the last four.

Switzerland advanced to the semifinals after defeating Lithuania 3-1. Enya HU gave Switzerland the opening point with a four-game victory over Emilia PSCOLOVSKA. After the players shared the opening two games, HU regained the advantage by taking the third 11-7 before edging a tense fourth 14-12.

Kaja TVOROGAL brought Lithuania level with a four-game victory over Ilvi ULRICH. TVOROGAL won the opening two games, and although ULRICH responded in the third, the Lithuanian closed out the match 11-7 in the fourth.

Switzerland regained the lead in the doubles as HU and ULRICH defeated PSCOLOVSKA and TVOROGAL in four games. After Lithuania levelled the contest, the Swiss pair took firm control, winning the next two 11-3 and 11-5.

ULRICH then returned to secure Switzerland’s place in the semifinals with a straight-games victory over PSCOLOVSKA. She held her nerve to edge the second game 13-11 before closing out the match 11-9.

Fourth seeds Sweden produced a major upset in the quarterfinals, knocking out top seeds Czechia with a superb 3-0 victory.

Siri BENJEGARD gave Sweden the perfect start with a straight-games victory over Laura MARSICKOVA, winning 11-7, 11-5, 11-9.

Nike LUNDQVIST then doubled Sweden’s advantage with a four-game victory over Adela BRHELOVA. The Czech player edged the opening game 14-12, but LUNDQVIST responded strongly by taking the next two 11-9, 11-5. She then held her nerve in a tense fourth game, prevailing 13-11.

BENJEGARD and LUNDQVIST completed the upset in the doubles. After the pairs shared the opening two games, the Swedes regained control, winning the next two 11-8, 11-9 to send Sweden into the semifinals and end Czechia’s title challenge.

Fifth seeds France booked their place in the semifinals with a commanding 3-0 victory over sixth seeds Romania.

Albane ROCHUT gave France the perfect start by defeating Kariss SERBAN in four games. After taking the opening two games comfortably, ROCHUT saw SERBAN edge the third 14-12 before responding emphatically to close out the match 11-1.

Eva LAM doubled France’s advantage with a dominant straight-games victory over Bianca TOMA.

France completed the clean sweep in superb fashion in the doubles as ROCHUT and LAM proved too strong for SERBAN and TOMA, recording a straight-games victory while allowing the Romanian pair just 14 points to secure a place in the last four.

The post Sweden, France, Germany and Switzerland Complete Under 15 Girls Semifinal Line-up first appeared on European table tennis union.

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[Milica Nikolic]

The semifinal line-up in the Under 19 Girls Teams event at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar is complete. France will face Germany, while Portugal will meet Romania.

Top seeds France survived a major scare to reach the semifinals, recovering from 0-2 down to defeat fifth seeds Spain 3-2.

Maria BERZOSA gave Spain the opening point with a four-game victory over Leana HOCHART. The Spaniard controlled the opening two games before HOCHART responded in the third, but BERZOSA closed out the match 11-9 in the fourth.

Camila MOSCOSO then edged Nina GUO ZHENG in the closest contest of the tie. After the players shared the opening four games, MOSCOSO held her nerve in a dramatic decider, prevailing 17-15 to put Spain within one point of the semifinals.

France responded through Jade HUYNH, who produced a straight-games victory over Renata SHYPSHA to keep her team alive.

GUO ZHENG then levelled the tie with an emphatic straight-games win over BERZOSA.

The decisive fifth singles saw HOCHART rise to the occasion. She defeated MOSCOSO in four games, recovering after narrowly losing the second 12-10 before taking the final two 11-6 and 11-9 to complete France’s remarkable comeback.

Sixth seeds Germany booked their place in the semifinals with a straight matches victory over 15th seeds Bulgaria.

Koharu ITAGAKI gave Germany the perfect start with a dominant straight-games victory over Nina NIKOLOVA. Lorena MORSCH doubled Germany’s advantage by defeating Anita PETKOVA in straight games. PETKOVA pushed hard in the opening game, but MORSCH held her nerve to edge it 14-12 before taking firm control of the next two, winning 11-6 and 11-5.

Lisa-Sophie WANG then completed the clean sweep with a four-game victory over Sidelya MUTLU. After winning the opening two games comfortably, WANG saw MUTLU respond in the third, but the German regained control to close out the match 11-1.

Fourth seeds Portugal secured their place in the semifinals with a 3-1 victory over seventh seeds Austria.

Mariana SANTA COMBA gave Portugal the perfect start by defeating Nina SKERBINZ in four games. After dropping the second, SANTA COMBA responded strongly to take the next two 11-8 and 11-7.

Julia LEAL then extended Portugal’s advantage in the closest match of the tie. Mariia LYTVYN forced a deciding game after recovering from a two-game deficit, but LEAL held her nerve to prevail 11-6 in the fifth.

Austria reduced the deficit through Elina FUCHS, who overcame Beatriz PINTO in four games. After taking the opening game comfortably, FUCHS edged two dramatic deuce games, 19-17 and 15-13, to keep Austria’s hopes alive.

LEAL returned to seal Portugal’s place in the last four. She produced another composed display to defeat SKERBINZ in four games, winning 11-5, 11-5, 8-11 and 11-8.

Portugal coach Marco RODRIGUES said SANTA COMBA’s opening victory had transformed the tie.

“We knew from the beginning that this would be a very difficult match. Nina is a very strong player, but Austria’s other players are also at a high level. Mariana’s victory over Nina in the opening match made a huge difference. It gave us confidence and made the tie a little more comfortable.

“Julia then played an excellent match to win 3-2. I expected Beatriz to win the third singles, but she struggled against Elina’s backhand pimple rubber. At the start, Beatriz made a few mistakes against it and then became a little hesitant because she was afraid of missing. That allowed the Austrian player to take control.

“Julia is playing at a very high level. She has a strong backhand, a strong forehand and, most importantly, many tactical options. She can adapt to different styles of play, and today she showed that once again.”

LEAL was pleased with the balance and confidence she showed in both of her victories.

“I think I played well today and felt confident throughout the tie. My biggest strength was that both my backhand and forehand were working well, so I felt I had good balance in my game.

“Before the match, I expected Nina to be the toughest opponent, but Mariia also played at a very high level. That made my first match extremely difficult, and I was really happy to come through it 3-2.

“After that victory, my confidence grew even more. I went into my second match believing in my game, and I was able to maintain a high level to secure the win for the team.”

Second seeds Romania completed the semifinal line-up by edging third seeds Poland 3-2 in a thrilling quarterfinal.

Katarzyna RAJKOWSKA gave Poland the opening point after a dramatic five-game victory over Alesia Sofia SFERLEA. After the players shared the opening two games, SFERLEA edged the third 14-12, but RAJKOWSKA responded by taking the final two 11-7 and 11-7.

Bianca MEI ROSU levelled the tie with a straight-games victory over Karolina HOLDA.

Natalia BOGDANOWICZ restored Poland’s advantage by defeating Patricia STOICA in four games. STOICA won the opener, but BOGDANOWICZ responded emphatically to take the next three.

MEI ROSU once again proved decisive for Romania, producing another dominant straight-games victory, this time over RAJKOWSKA, to force a deciding fifth match.

SFERLEA then completed Romania’s comeback. After winning the opening game, she saw HOLDA respond by taking the next two, but the Romanian regained control when it mattered most, winning the fourth and fifth 11-6 and 11-6 to secure Romania’s place in the semifinals.

The post France, Germany, Portugal and Romania Complete Under 19 Girls Semifinal Line-up first appeared on European table tennis union.

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[Milica Nikolic]

Tomorrow’s Under 15 Boys Teams final at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar will feature fourth seeds Poland and third seeds Germany after both teams came through demanding semifinal encounters. Poland survived a five-match thriller against eighth seeds France, while Germany overcame Sweden in straight matches despite facing stiff resistance throughout.

Fourth seeds Poland produced a remarkable comeback to defeat top seeds France 3-2 in one of the most dramatic ties of the tournament.

Noah TESSIER gave France the ideal start with a commanding straight-games victory over Jakub TURECKI. Poland responded immediately as Hubert KWIECINSKI levelled the tie with an equally convincing straight-games win over Nolan JOHNSTON.

France edged back in front after a thrilling doubles contest. Noah TESSIER and Quentin SANDONA established a two-game lead over TURECKI and KWIECINSKI before the Polish pair fought back to force a decider. The French duo regained control in the fifth game, winning 11-6 to move within one point of the final.

KWIECINSKI once again proved decisive, defeating TESSIER in straight games to level the tie at 2-2 and send the semifinal into a deciding fifth match.

The final singles produced an unforgettable finish. JOHNSTON looked set to clinch victory after taking the opening two games against TURECKI, but the Pole refused to surrender. He edged the third game 12-10, saved another match in the fourth with a 14-12 victory, and completed the comeback by winning the decider 12-10, sending Poland into the final.

“I think the most important thing was the atmosphere on the bench. We supported each other throughout the match and never gave up. Both Jakub and I played really well, and that team spirit made the difference. The opponents were very strong, so it was never going to be an easy match, but I believed in my own level and knew I could win my matches.

The doubles is always an important point in a team match, although today we managed to win even without taking it. At 2-2, when Jakub was trailing 0-2 in games, we knew it would be very difficult, but we never stopped believing in him. We were confident he could come back, and he did it in an incredible way. I didn’t even realise the exact scores during the match because I was so focused, but it was an amazing comeback and a fantastic team victory.”

Third seeds Germany defeated sixth seeds Sweden 3-0, although the scoreline did not reflect how closely contested the tie was.

Tien Nghia PHONG recovered from dropping the opening game against Emil ELLERMANN to win the next three 11-9, 11-6, 11-7 and hand Germany the first point.

Lukas WANG then came through another demanding encounter against Erik KOGERFELT. After the players shared the opening four games, WANG dominated the decider 11-4 to double Germany’s advantage.

The doubles completed the victory, but not before another dramatic battle. PHONG and WANG appeared to be cruising after taking the opening two games, only for Sweden to push them all the way in the third. The German pair eventually converted the match on their fifth opportunity, winning 18-16 to secure their place in tomorrow’s final against Poland.

France – Poland 2-3

• Noah TESSIER – Jakub TURECKI 3-0 (11-3, 11-6, 11-6)
• Nolan JOHNSTON – Hubert KWIECINSKI 0-3 (8-11, 6-11, 5-11)
• Noah TESSIER, Quentin SANDONA – Jakub TURECKI, Hubert KWIECINSKI 3-2 (11-8, 11-7, 9-11, 9-11, 11-6)
• Noah TESSIER – Hubert KWIECINSKI 0-3 (9-11, 6-11, 5-11)
• Nolan JOHNSTON – Jakub TURECKI 2-3 (11-5, 11-6, 10-12, 12-14, 10-12)

Germany – Sweden 3-0

• Tien Nghia PHONG – Emil ELLERMANN 3-1 (7-11, 11-9, 11-6, 11-7)
• Lukas WANG – Erik KOGERFELT 3-2 (10-12, 13-11, 11-7, 9-11, 11-4)
• Tien Nghia PHONG, Lukas WANG – Emil ELLERMANN, Erik KOGERFELT 3-0 (11-7, 11-4, 18-16)

The post Poland and Germany Book Places in Under 15 Boys Team Final first appeared on European table tennis union.

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[Milica Nikolic]

Romania and France will contest tomorrow’s Under 19 Boys Teams final at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar after overcoming Spain and Poland respectively in the semifinals. Spain and Poland saw their title hopes come to an end, but both teams will leave Portugal with bronze medals.

Ninth seeds Romania continued their remarkable run by defeating fourth seeds Spain 3-0, although every match proved to be a fierce battle.

Robert ISTRATE recovered from a two-game deficit to overcome Francesc CARRERA in five games. After dropping the opening two games 11-7 and 11-9, the Romanian raised his level, taking the next three 11-8, 11-8, 11-4 to give his team the lead.

Robert PODAR then doubled Romania’s advantage with another five-game comeback. Luca KHIDASHELI claimed the opening game before PODAR won the next two 11-9, 11-9. The Spaniard forced a decider, but PODAR held firm to close it out 11-6.

Andrei TIBIRNA sealed Romania’s place in the final with a four-game victory over Dario SALCEDO. After losing the opening game, TIBIRNA responded with three consecutive wins, edging a crucial third game 12-10 before closing the match 11-9.

“Although the score says 3-0, it was a very difficult match from the beginning. They are a very strong team and had already achieved some great results in the tournament. Every match was close, with two of them going to five games.

When Robert was trailing 0-2 in the opening match, I never stopped believing in him. We are always there for each other, in the difficult moments as well as the good ones. I think his comeback was a combination of both tactical changes and mental strength, and he managed to turn the match around.

My own match was also challenging. I knew Luca is a very strong player because I had watched him throughout the tournament, and he had already beaten some excellent opponents. I prepared very well, and my coach helped me a lot with the tactics. I think that preparation, together with sticking to the game plan, made the difference and helped me win,” said Robert PODAR.

Top seeds France also had to work hard to book their place in the title match, defeating second seeds Poland 3-1.

Nathan PILARD gave France the perfect start with a straight-games victory over Samuel MICHNA, winning 11-9, 11-6, 11-6.

Poland levelled the tie as Marcel BLASZCZYK defeated Nathan LAM in four games, recovering after dropping the second game to take control of the contest.

Antoine NOIRAULT then produced one of the comebacks of the day. Trailing Mateusz SAKOWICZ by two games, the Frenchman fought back brilliantly, winning the final three games 11-5, 11-9, 11-9 to move France within one point of the final.

The decisive fourth singles also went the distance. PILARD recovered twice against BLASZCZYK before dominating the closing stages of the match. After levelling the contest at 2-2 with an emphatic 11-3 fourth game, the Frenchman completed the comeback by winning the decider 11-4, sending France into tomorrow’s gold medal match against Romania.

“It was already a very difficult situation because the team score was 1-1, and even the first two matches had been very close. I didn’t start my match well, but I think the comeback was mainly about tactics. I changed a lot of things, especially with my serve and receive, and that allowed me to turn the match around.

Winning that point was extremely important. At 1-1, going 2-1 ahead instead of 2-1 behind makes a huge difference for the whole team. It also gave Nathan a much better position going into his match, and he played a really good game to finish the job.

I’m very happy with our team’s performance today. Everyone fought hard and supported each other. Tomorrow will be another difficult match, but we came to this competition to win the title. We’re ready for the challenge and looking forward to the fight,” said Antoine NOIRAULT.

Romania – Spain 3-0

• Robert ISTRATE – Francesc CARRERA 3-2 (7-11, 9-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-4)
• Robert PODAR – Luca KHIDASHELI 3-2 (4-11, 11-9, 11-9, 7-11, 11-6)
• Andrei TIBIRNA – Dario SALCEDO 3-1 (6-11, 11-8, 12-10, 11-9)

France – Poland 3-1

• Nathan PILARD – Samuel MICHNA 3-0 (11-9, 11-6, 11-6)
• Nathan LAM – Marcel BLASZCZYK 1-3 (9-11, 11-5, 7-11, 7-11)
• Antoine NOIRAULT – Mateusz SAKOWICZ 3-2 (9-11, 3-11, 11-5, 11-9, 11-9)
• Nathan PILARD – Marcel BLASZCZYK 3-2 (6-11, 12-10, 3-11, 11-3, 11-4)

The post Romania and France Set Up Under 19 Boys Final After Thrilling Semifinal Victories first appeared on European table tennis union.

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[Milica Nikolic]

The stage is set for a blockbuster Under 19 Girls Teams final at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar, with top seeds France and second seeds Romania progressing through contrasting semifinal battles. France completed a 3-0 victory over Germany despite three highly competitive matches, while Romania overcame fourth seeds Portugal 3-1 to keep their title hopes alive.

France opened the semifinal with an assured performance from Nina GUO ZHENG, who defeated Koharu ITAGAKI in straight games, 11-7, 11-8, 11-5, to give the favourites the early advantage.

Leana HOCHART then moved France within one point of the final by overcoming Lisa-Sophie WANG in four games. After dominating the opening two games, HOCHART briefly saw WANG fight back by taking the third, but the French player quickly regained control to seal the victory 11-5 in the fourth.

The final point came after the closest contest of the tie. Alexia NODIN established a two-game lead against Lorena MORSCH, only for the German to level the match with an impressive comeback. NODIN responded strongly in the deciding game, winning 11-4 to complete France’s 3-0 success.

Leana HOCHART was delighted to see France return to the title match.

“I’m very happy with the victory. Although we won 3-0, every match was competitive and the overall level was very high. There was a great atmosphere, and we’re really happy to have reached the final.

I had played against my opponent before, although I don’t remember exactly when. I think I won that match, but every match is different. I felt comfortable because she is a defensive player, and I actually enjoy playing against that style. We have a defensive player on our own team as well, so I can practise against that type of game before matches, and I think that helped me.

I also believe it’s an advantage to have a defensive player in the team because it changes the rhythm and makes it harder for opponents to prepare. They never know exactly what to expect. We have four strong players with different styles, and I think that variety is one of our strengths.”

Romania secured the second place in the final after defeating Portugal 3-1.

Bianca MEI ROSU recovered from dropping the opening game against Mariana SANTA COMBA to claim the next three and hand Romania the first point.

Alesia Sofia SFERLEA then doubled the advantage in another four-game battle. Julia LEAL took the opening game, but SFERLEA edged the next two 11-9 before closing out the match 11-7.

Portugal stayed alive through Beatriz PINTO, who bounced back after losing the first game to defeat Andreea BAIASU in four games and reduce the deficit.

MEI ROSU, however, ensured there would be no comeback. Facing LEAL, she delivered another composed performance, winning 11-8, 12-10, 11-7 to send Romania into the final, where they will challenge France for the European title.

Germany – France 0-3

• Koharu ITAGAKI – Nina GUO ZHENG 0-3 (7-11, 8-11, 5-11)
• Lisa-Sophie WANG – Leana HOCHART 1-3 (6-11, 4-11, 12-10, 5-11)
• Lorena MORSCH – Alexia NODIN 2-3 (8-11, 6-11, 11-5, 11-8, 4-11

Romania – Portugal 3-1

• Bianca MEI ROSU – Mariana SANTA COMBA 3-1 (4-11, 11-7, 11-6, 11-8)
• Alesia Sofia SFERLEA – Julia LEAL 3-1 (9-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-7)
• Andreea BAIASU – Beatriz PINTO 1- 3(11-5, 6-11, 5-11, 8-11)
• Bianca MEI ROSU – Julia LEAL 3-0 (11-8, 12-10, 11-7)

The post France and Romania to Battle for Under 19 Girls Team Crown first appeared on European table tennis union.

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[Milica Nikolic]

France and Germany will contest tomorrow’s Under 15 Girls Teams final at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar after overcoming Sweden and Switzerland respectively in the semifinals. Sweden and Switzerland will both leave Portugal with bronze medals.

Fifth seeds France delivered a flawless team performance to defeat fourth seeds Sweden 3-0, although the opening singles proved to be a hard-fought battle.

Albane ROCHUT gave France the lead by defeating Siri BENJEGARD in five games. After dropping the opening game heavily, ROCHUT responded impressively to win the next two before BENJEGARD forced a decider. The French player remained composed to seal the fifth game 11-7.

Eva LAM then produced a dominant display against Nike LUNDQVIST, conceding just 10 points in a commanding straight-games victory to put France within one point of the final.

ROCHUT and LAM completed the sweep in the doubles, defeating BENJEGARD and Alicia ENBOM in straight games to secure France’s place in the gold medal match.

ROCHUT was delighted with both her own contribution and the collective performance.

“I’m very happy with both my own performance and the performance of the whole team because this was a true team effort. I’m very grateful that I could contribute with a 3-0 win.

I had played against Siri about two months ago. I also won that match 3-0, but it was much closer than this one. This time I felt I was in better control, so I’m really pleased with how I played.

She is a very good player, and we knew it would be a special match because our previous encounters had always been very competitive. Starting the team match with a victory was important for my confidence and gave us a good start. Now we’re looking forward to the final and we’ll do our best again.”

Third seeds Germany recovered from an early setback to defeat Switzerland 3-1 and book the second place in the final.

Enya HU put Switzerland ahead by overcoming Amelie Guzi JIA in four games. The Swiss player edged the opening two games before JIA kept Germany alive by taking the third 14-12. HU, however, closed out the fourth to give Switzerland the early advantage.

Anna WALTER levelled the tie with a four-game victory over Ilvi ULRICH. After losing the opening game, WALTER responded confidently to win the next three.

Germany then took control in the doubles, where JIA and WALTER proved too strong for HU and ULRICH, recording a convincing straight-games victory.

WALTER returned to the table to seal Germany’s place in the final. Facing HU, she recovered after losing the opening game to win the next three 11-8, 11-5 and 11-9, completing Germany’s comeback and setting up a title clash with France.

Sweden – France 0-3

• Siri BENJEGARD – Albane ROCHUT 2-3 (11-2, 7-11, 7-11, 11-9, 7-11)
• Nike LUNDQVIST – Eva LAM 0-3 (3-11, 4-11, 3-11)
• Siri BENJEGARD, Alicia ENBOM – lbane ROCHUT, Eva LAM 0-3 (3-11, 8-11, 5-11)

Switzerland – Germany 1-3

• Enya HU – Amelie Guzi JIA 3-1 (13-11, 11-9, 12-14, 11-7)
• Ilvi ULRICH – Anna WALTER 1-3 (11-9, 9-11, 8-11, 9-11)
• Enya HU, Ilvi ULRICH – Amelie Guzi JIA, Anna WALTER 0-3 (4-11, 9-11, 8-11)
• Enya HU – Anna WALTER 1-3 (11-8, 8-11, 5-11, 9-11)

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[Milica Nikolic]

France secured their fourth Under 19 Girls Teams title at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar with a 3-0 victory over second seeds Romania in the final.

Germany and hosts Portugal shared the bronze medals.

The French coaching staff made a tactical decision before the final, moving defender Alexia NODIN into the second position in the line-up. The move proved decisive as NODIN opened the tie with a straight-games victory over Bianca MEI ROSU, setting France firmly on course for the title.

Nina GUO ZHENG then doubled the advantage with another convincing 3-0 success against Alesia Sofia SFERLEA, leaving Leana HOCHART with the opportunity to secure the crown. Despite dropping the second and third games, HOCHART recovered strongly to win the deciding fifth game and complete France’s triumph.

“The coaches changed the line-up so I could play against Romania’s number one player because I had beaten her twice before. We felt it was the right tactical choice. It worked perfectly. I won 3-0, even though I was trailing 2-8 in the third game. I came back to win it 11-9, and I’m really happy because I managed to keep the pressure on throughout the match and didn’t let her find her rhythm.

“After that, Nina played a great match. She was the favourite and she completely controlled her singles to win 3-0. Then Leana finished the job. Even though the scoreline was close, she was in control of the match, stayed confident and knew she would get the win.

“The toughest match of the tournament was definitely the quarter-final against Spain. We were trailing 2-0, but we managed to come back and win 3-2. Even when we were behind, we kept our intensity, stayed aggressive and never stopped believing. I think we handled that situation really well,” said Alexia NODIN.

Nina GUO ZHENG highlighted both the tactical value of having a defender in the team and the confidence France gained from their dramatic quarter-final comeback.

“Romania are a very strong team. Bianca is the second seed in this competition, and Alexia had beaten her every time they played before. That’s why we decided to put Alexia in the second position. We thought that even if she didn’t win, playing against a defender would make Bianca tired and put her into a different rhythm before facing an attacking player. In the end, Alexia won, and that made the whole match much easier for us.

“Having a defender in the team is a real advantage because it changes the rhythm of the match. There aren’t many choppers in Europe, so most players don’t have much experience playing against them. Alexia gives us a different tactical option, and that can make a big difference in team matches.

“The toughest match of the tournament was definitely the quarter-final against Spain. We were trailing 2-0 after Leana lost the opening match, and I was quite nervous going to the table after that. I lost my match as well, but we kept fighting and managed to come back and win 3-2. That comeback gave us a lot of confidence.”

Romania – France 0-3

• Bianca MEI ROSU – Alexia NODIN 0-3 (6-11, 9-11, 9-11)
• Alesia Sofia SFERLEA – Nina GUO ZHENG 0-3 (9-11, 4-11, 9-11)
• Patricia STOICA – Leana HOCHART 2-3 (7-11, 11-8, 11-9, 4-11, 9-11)

Semifinals

Germany – France 0-3

• Koharu ITAGAKI – Nina GUO ZHENG 0-3 (7-11, 8-11, 5-11)
• Lisa-Sophie WANG – Leana HOCHART 1-3 (6-11, 4-11, 12-10, 5-11)
• Lorena MORSCH – Alexia NODIN 2-3 (8-11, 6-11, 11-5, 11-8, 4-11

Romania – Portugal 3-1

• Bianca MEI ROSU – Mariana SANTA COMBA 3-1 (4-11, 11-7, 11-6, 11-8)
• Alesia Sofia SFERLEA – Julia LEAL 3-1 (9-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-7)
• Andreea BAIASU – Beatriz PINTO 1- 3(11-5, 6-11, 5-11, 8-11)
• Bianca MEI ROSU – Julia LEAL 3-0 (11-8, 12-10, 11-7)

The post France Clinched Under 19 Girls Teams Title first appeared on European table tennis union.

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[Milica Nikolic]

France claimed their 12th Under 19 Boys Teams title at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar, defeating ninth seeds Romania 3-0 in a commanding final. The victory further strengthens France’s status as the most successful nation in the history of the event.

Nathan LAM gave France the ideal start, beating Robert ISTRATE in straight games. Nathan PILARD then moved the French team to the brink of the title with another convincing 3-0 victory over Robert PODAR, before Antoine NOIRAULT sealed the championship by overcoming Andrei TIBIRNA in three close games.

The triumph completed a remarkable run for the eighth seeds, who had already survived a dramatic semi-final against Poland before dominating the final.

“It was an incredible final and a very strong performance from the whole team. We came here with the goal of winning the tournament, but you never know if you can actually achieve it. This title is the result of everything we have done this year, all the hard work in training and all the energy we have put into the team. We are really happy with this victory.

“LAM gave us the perfect start by winning the opening match with a very strong performance. Then PILARD also played at a great level. He wasn’t used to playing in that position, but he adapted really well and won 3-0 in what was also a difficult match.

“It is never easy to go to the table when your team is leading 2-0 and you know you can secure the title. The first game wasn’t easy, but I kept working, found my rhythm and played a really good match. I’m very happy that I could finish it for the team,” said Antoine NOIRAULT.

Nathan PILARD looked back on the key moment of France’s title-winning campaign:

“I think we all agree that the semi-final against Poland was the toughest match of the tournament. The score was 1-1, and Antoine was trailing 0-2 before coming back to win. That victory gave the whole team so much confidence and energy. After that, we all believed even more that we could go on and win the tournament.”

Romania – France 0-3

• Robert ISTRATE – Nathan LAM 0-3 (8-11, 4-11, 7-11)
• Robert PODAR – Nathan PILARD 0-3 (7-11, 7-11, 10-12)
• Andrei TIBIRNA – Antoine NOIRAULT 0-3 (12-14, 7-11, 4-11)

Semi final

Romania – Spain 3-0

• Robert ISTRATE – Francesc CARRERA 3-2 (7-11, 9-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-4)
• Robert PODAR – Luca KHIDASHELI 3-2 (4-11, 11-9, 11-9, 7-11, 11-6)
• Andrei TIBIRNA – Dario SALCEDO 3-1 (6-11, 11-8, 12-10, 11-9)

France – Poland 3-1

• Nathan PILARD – Samuel MICHNA 3-0 (11-9, 11-6, 11-6)
• Nathan LAM – Marcel BLASZCZYK 1-3 (9-11, 11-5, 7-11, 7-11)
• Antoine NOIRAULT – Mateusz SAKOWICZ 3-2 (9-11, 3-11, 11-5, 11-9, 11-9)
• Nathan PILARD – Marcel BLASZCZYK 3-2 (6-11, 12-10, 3-11, 11-3, 11-4)

The post France Extend Their Legacy with 12th Under 19 Boys Teams Title first appeared on European table tennis union.

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[Milica Nikolic]

Poland celebrated a historic breakthrough at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar, claiming the nation’s first-ever Under 15 Boys Teams title. Until now, Poland’s team successes had come only in the Under 18 and Under 19 age categories, making this triumph another significant milestone for its youth programme.

France and Sweden shared the bronze medals.

In a thrilling final between the third and fourth seeds, Poland edged Germany 3-2 after another dramatic comeback.

Germany struck first as Tien Nghia PHONG defeated Jakub TURECKI in straight games, but Hubert KWIECIŃSKI responded fiercly, overcoming Lukas WANG 3-0 to level the tie.

The German pair of WANG and PHONG restored their advantage by winning the doubles, leaving Poland needing victories in both remaining singles.

KWIECIŃSKI once again delivered under pressure, defeating PHONG in straight games to force the deciding match. There, TURECKI recovered after surrendering a two-game lead, holding his nerve in the fifth game to overcome WANG and secure Poland’s historic title.

“This is incredible. My team has been amazing throughout the tournament. They gave me so much confidence, and I felt 100% ready every time I went to the table.

“I was very confident before the decisive match against France, and I felt the same today. I believed in myself and in the team.

“I think the semi-final against France was very difficult, but today’s final against Germany was even tougher,” said Jakub TURECKI.

His teammate Hubert KWIECIŃSKI highlighted the team’s belief despite consecutive doubles defeats in the semi-final and final.

“We played an amazing final. I think I played really well, and Kuba never gave up. We always believed in him, and we believe we can win every match together.

“We played well in the doubles, but our opponents maybe had better chemistry and more experience, and they managed to win on both days. Still, in the end, we showed our strength in the decisive matches.”

Germany – Poland 2-3

• Tien Nghia PHONG – Jakub TURECKI 3-0 (11-9, 11-6, 11-7)
• Lukas WANG – Hubert KWIECINSKI 0-3 (7-11, 4-11, 7-11)
• Lukas WANG, Tien Nghia PHONG – Jakub TURECKI, Hubert KWIECINSKI 3-1 (11-4, 6-11, 11-6, 11-7)
• Tien Nghia PHONG – Hubert KWIECINSKI 0-3 (9-11, 4-11, 11-13)
• Lukas WANG – Jakub TURECKI 2-3 (8-11, 7-11, 11-5, 11-8, 9-11)

Semi final

France – Poland 2-3

• Noah TESSIER – Jakub TURECKI 3-0 (11-3, 11-6, 11-6)
• Nolan JOHNSTON – Hubert KWIECINSKI 0-3 (8-11, 6-11, 5-11)
• Noah TESSIER, Quentin SANDONA – Jakub TURECKI, Hubert KWIECINSKI 3-2 (11-8, 11-7, 9-11, 9-11, 11-6)
• Noah TESSIER – Hubert KWIECINSKI 0-3 (9-11, 6-11, 5-11)
• Nolan JOHNSTON – Jakub TURECKI 2-3 (11-5, 11-6, 10-12, 12-14, 10-12)

Germany – Sweden 3-0

• Tien Nghia PHONG – Emil ELLERMANN 3-1 (7-11, 11-9, 11-6, 11-7)
• Lukas WANG – Erik KOGERFELT 3-2 (10-12, 13-11, 11-7, 9-11, 11-4)
• Tien Nghia PHONG, Lukas WANG – Emil ELLERMANN, Erik KOGERFELT 3-0 (11-7, 11-4, 18-16)

The post Poland Make History with First Ever Under 15 Boys Teams Title first appeared on European table tennis union.

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[Milica Nikolic]

France captured their second European Under 15 Girls Teams title after overcoming third seeds Germany 3-2 in a gripping final at the European Youth Championships in Gondomar. Seeded fifth, the French side completed an impressive campaign by defeating one of the pre-tournament favourites to lift the trophy.

Sweden and Switzerland secured the bronze medals.

Eva LAM gave France the perfect start with a composed 3-1 victory over Amelie Guzi JIA. Germany responded immediately as Anna WALTER edged Albane ROCHUT in a dramatic five-game encounter to level the match.

Germany then moved ahead after JIA and WALTER combined to defeat LAM and ROCHUT in the doubles, putting the defending finalists within one point of the title.

With France facing elimination, LAM produced another outstanding performance, defeating WALTER 3-1 to force the decisive fifth match. There, ROCHUT held her nerve against JIA, winning in four games to seal the title for France.

It is the second European Under 15 Girls Teams crown for France, who once again demonstrated remarkable resilience by recovering from a 1-2 deficit in the final to deny Germany and complete a memorable championship run.

Final

France – Germany 3-2

• Eva LAM – Amelie Guzi JIA 3-1 (10-12, 11-9, 11-7, 11-6)
• Albane ROCHUT – Anna WALTER 2-3 (11-7, 12-14, 11-6, 5-11, 9-11)
• Eva LAM, Albane ROCHUT – Amelie Guzi JIA, Anna WALTER 1-3 (6-11, 11-6, 9-11, 5-11)
• Eva LAM – Anna WALTER 3-1 (11-5, 15-13, 7-11, 11-8)
• Albane ROCHUT – Amelie Guzi JIA (13-11, 11-5, 8-11, 11-8)

Semi final

Sweden – France 0-3

• Siri BENJEGARD – Albane ROCHUT 2-3 (11-2, 7-11, 7-11, 11-9, 7-11)
• Nike LUNDQVIST – Eva LAM 0-3 (3-11, 4-11, 3-11)
• Siri BENJEGARD, Alicia ENBOM – lbane ROCHUT, Eva LAM 0-3 (3-11, 8-11, 5-11)

Switzerland – Germany 1-3

• Enya HU – Amelie Guzi JIA 3-1 (13-11, 11-9, 12-14, 11-7)
• Ilvi ULRICH – Anna WALTER 1-3 (11-9, 9-11, 8-11, 9-11)
• Enya HU, Ilvi ULRICH – Amelie Guzi JIA, Anna WALTER 0-3 (4-11, 9-11, 8-11)
• Enya HU – Anna WALTER 1-3 (11-8, 8-11, 5-11, 9-11)

The post France Edge Germany in Thriller to Claim Under 15 Girls Teams Title first appeared on European table tennis union.

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