Sweden pulled off a remarkable comeback to defeat Japan 3-2 in the men’s team table tennis semifinals at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics on Wednesday.
With this victory, Sweden advances to the gold medal match, where they will face the winner between China and France.
The semifinal was a nail-biting encounter that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. The Swedish team, initially trailing 2-0, showcased resilience and determination to overturn the deficit and secure their spot in the final.
The match began with Japan taking an early lead. In the first doubles match, Anton Kallberg and Kristian Karlsson of Sweden fell to Japan’s Hiroto Shinozuka and Shunsuke Togami with scores of 8-11, 11-9, 11-4, 11-7.
The momentum continued in Japan’s favor as Sweden’s Truls Moregard, the men’s singles silver medalist, lost to Tomokazu Harimoto in a closely contested singles match, with scores of 13-11, 9-11, 11-5, 12-10.
Facing elimination, Sweden rallied in the subsequent matches. Kristian Karlsson ignited the comeback by defeating Shunsuke Togami 7-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-5, reducing Japan’s lead.
Truls Moregard then redeemed his earlier loss by overcoming Hiroto Shinozuka with scores of 11-5, 11-6, 5-11, 12-10, leveling the team score at 2-2.
In the decisive final match, Sweden maintained their composure and determination to secure a 3-2 overall victory, booking their place in the Olympic final.
Sweden will now prepare to face the winner of the other semifinal between China and France. The gold medal match promises to be an exciting showdown as Sweden aims for Olympic glory.
Reference(s):
Sweden shock Japan to reach men' team table tennis final at Paris 2024
cgtn.com
