Paris, Aug 2 (Agency) In a thrilling display at the Paris 2024 Olympics, India’s Ankita Bhakat and Dhiraj Bommadevara secured a hard-fought victory over Spain’s Elia Canales and Pablo Acha Gonzalez in the quarterfinals of archery mixed team event.The Indian duo triumphed with a 5-3 score, advancing to the semifinals and moving within striking distance of India’s first-ever Olympic archery medal. The match, held at the iconic Les Invalides on Friday, began with Bhakat and Bommadevara claiming the first set 38-37. The second set ended in a tie, keeping the contest evenly poised. However, the Spanish pair managed to level the match by winning the penultimate set.In a tense decider, Bommadevara’s precision proved crucial.
He delivered two vital 10s, adding to the four perfect shots he had already recorded in the earlier sets. This stellar performance ensured the Indian pair outscored their opponents, securing their place in the semifinals. Earlier in the day, Bhakat and Bommadevara, seeded fifth, displayed their prowess by defeating Indonesia’s Diananda Choirunisa and Arif Pangestu with a convincing 5-1 victory and reached quarterfinals. As medal rounds loom on the horizon, all eyes are on Bhakat and Bommadevara as they aim to make history for India in the sport of archery. With just one more win needed for an assured medal, the hopes of a nation rest on their shoulders. The stage is set for a potential groundbreaking moment in Indian sports.