Odunayo Adekuoroye, Nigeria’s medal hopeful in women’s freestyle wrestling at the Paris 2024 Olympics, faced a tough defeat in the 57kg quarterfinal against China’s Kexin Hong on Thursday.

Despite being ranked World No. 3 and showing promising form after defeating Chaimaa Aouiss of Algeria by Victory by Injury in the Round of 16, Adekuoroye’s Olympic journey hit a roadblock in the quarterfinals.

The match against Hong was intensely contested, with Adekuoroye narrowly losing 8-10 points (Pin Fall). The close scoreline reflects the competitive nature of the bout, but the defeat is a significant disappointment for the three-time Commonwealth Champion.

Adekuoroye’s hopes are not entirely extinguished. She will have a chance to compete for a bronze medal if Kexin Hong advances to the final, allowing Adekuoroye to enter the repechage round. This gives the Nigerian wrestler a potential pathway to still secure a podium finish despite the setback.