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Georgian judoka team wins European Championship

By Messenger Staff
Tuesday, April 26
Georgia’s national team of judokas has won the Championship of Europe held in Kazan, Russia, after defeating the Russian Federation's team.

It is the eighth time Georgia has won the title.

Vazha Margvelashvili (66 kg) was the first finalist to compete, and after struggling against his opponent he was ultimately defeated by his Russian rival.

Nugzar Tatalashvili was next, and won his bout to even the score between Russia and Georgia to 1:1.

Avtandil Chrikishvili followed with another victory, making Georgia the leader.

Varlam Liparteliani, the next competitor, was losing at the beginning of his contest but then snatched victory from the jaws of defeat and made Georgia the Champion of Europe once again.

Georgian commentators highlighted moments when - according to them - referees made unfair decisions.

Before the finals, the Georgian athletes defeated the teams of Hungary, Greece and Poland.

In the individual competitions, Georgian judokas won a total of seven medals at the competition: two gold, three silver and two bronze.