European Youth Championships | 18 Jul 2023

Portugal Rewrites the History Books

In a historic feat, the Under 15 Boys team of Portugal has rewritten the history books by clinching the gold medal at the ORLEN European Youth Championships in Gliwice. Tiago ABIODUN, Dinis YE and Carlos GONÇALVES have etched their names as the first-ever Portuguese team to reach the final of the European Youth Championships, surpassing their previous best record of six bronze medals.

In a thrilling final, Portugal triumphed over Austria, represented by Julian RZIHAUSCHEK, Petr HODINA, Benjamin GIRLINGER, and Franciszek KOLODZIEJCZYK. Standing proudly on the podium just below them are France, with Nathan PILARD, Sandro CAVAILLE, and Rija WARIN, as well as Romania, with Robert PODAR, Robert ISTRATE, Mihai NAGY, and Flavius RUS.

This remarkable final highlighted a unique moment in this century, as two countries that have never claimed a European Youth Championship team title faced off. While Austria previously reached the final in Junior Girls in 1958, they had never advanced this far in the Under 15 Boys category.

Despite their first-time presence in the final, the Portuguese team delivered an exceptional performance, demonstrating a remarkable level of skill and composure.

"The opening match between Dinis and Julian was very close, and I initially struggled after losing the first game. However, I managed to regain my rhythm from the second game. The doubles match against the Austrians posed a big challenge, but Carlos GONÇALVES played exceptionally well and propelled us towards victory. It was crucial to adopt an aggressive approach against the Austrians and prevent them from gaining control. They punished any passive strategies," shared Tiago ABIODUN, who remains unbeaten in the Championships.

Portugal's journey to the gold medal was paved with victories over Romania, Slovakia, and Germany, demonstrated their unwavering determination and talent.

"The most challenging match for us was against Germany. They possess a formidable lineup of four outstanding players," ABIODUN added.

Final

Austria – Portugal 1-3

Julian RZIHAUSCHEK - Dinis YE 3-0 (11-8, 11-7, 11-9)

Petr HODINA - Tiago ABIODUN 1-3 (12-10, 8-11, 5-11, 7-11)

Petr HODINA, Julian RZIHAUSCHEK - Tiago ABIODUN, Carlos GONÇALVES 0-3 (8-11, 8-11, 13-15)

Julian RZIHAUSCHEK - Tiago ABIODUN 0-3 (8-11, 8-11, 10-12)