Nepal’s Arika Gurung showcased a brilliant performance at the Karate 1 Premier League in Rabat, Morocco, making it all the way to the semifinals. She defeated strong opponents from Turkey and Italy in earlier rounds.
However, in the semifinal match, Arika faced Spain’s Maria Torres Garcia, and the match ended in a 5-5 tie. As per the senshu rule, which awards the win to the player who scored the first point in a tie, Garcia advanced to the final.
Arika to Compete for Bronze on Sunday
Now, Arika Gurung will face Clemence Pye for the bronze medal. The match is scheduled for Sunday and will mark a historic moment for Nepali karate if she secures a podium finish.
Nepal’s Best-Ever Karate Performance
According to Nepal team’s head coach Kushaal Shrestha, Arika’s achievement is the biggest performance in Nepal’s karate history.
“She tied with the Spanish athlete and only lost on senshu. I’m very proud,” he wrote on Facebook.
Arika Gurung’s journey in the Karate 1 Premier League has already inspired many young athletes in Nepal, showing that global success is within reach.
