LIEBHERR 2019 ITTF World Championships
The thrilling semi final match in the Men’s Doubles Event at the LIEBHERR 2019 ITTF World Championships concluded with the great victory for Alvaro ROBLES of Spain and Ovidiu IONESCU of Romania. For Portugal’s partnership of Tiago APOLONIA and Joao MONTEIRO there is a consolation in bronze – first ever medal for Portugal at the World Championships (11-6 3-11 10-12 11-7 11-7 9-11 11-8).
At the beginning of the dramatic duel ROBLES and IOENSCU were in charge but in next two games Portugal’s pairings took over the control. In the battle that kept spectators at the edge of their seats there were many ups and downs. In the seventh game ROBLES and IONESCU recovered from being 4:8 in reverse to win the match and the last point were followed by eruption from the stands.
“Everything came at the end to the small points to the details. At 4:8 we had to change something to risk more. We did not panic and the proof is that we are the winner now. We open the game because the short-short tactics did not work any more. We had to attack and to prevent any attack from the other side ” explained Alvaro.
Second and third game went on the Portugal’s account.
“They adjusted so quickly to our game. They forced us constantly to change and to risk. In addition I felt really heavy on my legs. We had very difficult match yesterday and it made a difference today in the seventh game ” said Alvaro.
In other semi final MA Long and WANG Chuqin of China overcame compatriots LIANG Jingkun and LIN Gaoyuan 4-0 (12-10 11-7 11-7 11-5).
“We already beat MA Long and XU Xin at ITTF tour. It is good for our confidence but I am sure that Chinese team studied our game. They will be much better prepared now ” explained IONESCU.” Howeve3r we believe in our partnership and we have confidence in each other. I am looking forward tomorrow’s match.”
