Portugal’s Tiago ABIODUN secured first place in Group 8 of the ROMSTAL European Under 21 Championships, continuing his strong run and booking his place in the knockout stage.
ABIODUN opened Stage 2 with a comfortable 4-0 victory over Switzerland’s Noe KEUSCH before producing one of the standout performances of the group against Spain’s Daniel BERZOSA. The Portuguese player won 4-1, reversing the outcome of their most recent meeting and taking control of the group standings.
He completed the job in the final round with another 4-1 victory, this time against Nikon SHUTOV, finishing the group with a perfect 3-0 record.
BERZOSA recovered from his defeat to ABIODUN by overcoming both SHUTOV and KEUSCH to finish second and secure qualification for the knockout phase. SHUTOV claimed his only victory against KEUSCH, while the Swiss player ended the group without a win.
For ABIODUN, reaching the knockout stage was the first objective, but his ambitions now extend much further.
“It feels great. My goal was to reach the main draw, and now I want to fight for a medal.”
The Portuguese player admitted that the busy schedule was beginning to take its toll, but was pleased with the level he produced throughout the group.
“I played well. I am a bit tired because yesterday was a tough day. Last time I lost against BERZOSA, so I am happy with the way I played.”
Having topped both his Stage 1 group and now Stage 2, ABIODUN arrives in the knockout rounds full of confidence and with a clear target in mind.
“What comes next? A medal, I think.”
PHOTO by: Mihaela-Ionela BOBAR and Simion Sebastian TĂTARU
