The 57 kg final at the Grand Prix in Lima offered a spectacular conclusion to a day filled with daring throws, technical variety and unexpected twists. France dominated the category from the morning rounds, setting up a thrilling all-French final between two judoka who know each other better than anyone else. Amandine Buchard, stepping up from her usual 52 kg division, impressed with sharp tactical vision and her trademark kata-guruma, while Faiza Mokdar showed control, confidence and patience throughout the day.
In the final between Amandine Buchard and Faiza Mokdar, familiarity played a major role. Though they usually compete in different categories, the two French teammates train together daily and that deep understanding shaped a fascinating tactical duel. Buchard struck first with a perfectly executed kata-guruma to score yuko, reminding everyone why the technique has become her signature. Mokdar, however, remained composed and methodical, applying steady pressure that eventually forced Buchard to concede two penalties midway through the contest.
With the momentum shifting, Mokdar adjusted her pace and continued to draw attacks from her opponent. Her strategy was clear; push Buchard towards a third shido. In the closing minute, that plan paid off. Buchard received another penalty, handing Mokdar the victory and the gold medal for France. It was a smart, mature performance from Mokdar and an impressive silver medal for Buchard in her first appearance at 57 kg.
The bronze medal contests provided more excitement and reflected the depth of the category, with Shirlen Nascimento of Brazil facing Timna Nelson Levy of Israel, and Acelya Toprak of Great Britain taking on Jessica Lima, also of Brazil.
In the contest between Nascimento and Nelson Levy, both judoka fought with intense focus. By halfway through, each had two penalties, adding pressure to every exchange. It was Nelson Levy who ultimately received the third shido, giving Nascimento the victory and the bronze medal. The Brazilian celebrated a hard-fought win, rewarded for her composure and disciplined approach under pressure.
The second bronze medal match between Acelya Toprak and Jessica Lima began at a fast pace. Lima opened the scoring early with a clean o-uchi-gari for waza-ari, immediately putting Toprak on the back foot. The British judoka responded with power and determination, increasing her aggression as the minutes passed, but Lima’s solid defensive control left her few opportunities. The Brazilian maintained her advantage to the final buzzer, securing another bronze medal for her country and closing a strong day for Brazil’s women’s team.