Morocco's Triumph in Judo at the Mediterranean Games 2026
The 2026 Mediterranean Games in Taranto, Italy, witnessed a remarkable display of athletic prowess from Morocco, particularly in the judo events. Young judoka Ahmed Alaoui Cherifi made headlines as he secured a place in the finals after a gripping semifinal match that extended into the golden score against his opponent. Cherifi, the reigning African champion, demonstrated exceptional skill and tenacity, overcoming challenges from Salih Yildiz, who is ranked 43rd globally in the under-60 kg category.
In the finals, Cherifi continued to showcase his exceptional abilities as he faced off against Spain's Luis Barroso Lopez, ranked 38th in the world. Their match was equally intense, culminating again in a golden score that highlighted the high stakes and fierce competition of the event. Cherifi's relentless spirit and strategic acumen ultimately led him to victory, earning him the coveted gold medal.
Notably, Cherifi's success was mirrored by fellow Moroccan judokas who also shined in their respective categories. Soumiya Iraoui competed fiercely in the women's under-52 kg category but ultimately settled for a silver medal after a challenging bout against her Cypriot opponent, Sofia Asvesta Bioukou. Moreover, Hassan Doukkali contributed to Morocco's medal tally by securing a silver in the men's under-73 kg event, despite a tough match against Algeria's Idriss Redouane Messaoud, which concluded with a penalty accumulation decision.
As the judo events concluded, the Moroccan delegation celebrated a historic achievement, finishing first in the judo medal standings and eighth overall in the games, amassing an impressive collection of 15 medals – including 4 golds, 6 silvers, and 5 bronzes. This remarkable performance not only underscores the strength of Moroccan judo on an international platform but also reflects the nation's commitment to nurturing sports excellence.
As reported by lebrief.ma.
