The Skopje Junior European Cup 2025 marks the final opportunity for this age group to either secure qualification or test themselves ahead of next month’s continental championships. Today concluded the first day of competition in Skopje, with Türkiye (2-1-1) claiming the top spot on the overall medal table, followed by Azerbaijan (2-1-1) and Israel (1-2-2).
There were additional notable individual triumphs, such as that of Korina Dzidic (BIH) in the -70kg category. She can now turn her focus to the upcoming junior European Championships, set to take place in Bratislava this September. Dzidic confidently progressed to the final, where she faced Hanna Sitnik (BLR). Around the halfway mark of regular contest time, she secured victory by an osae-komi-waza.
Following the medal ceremony, Dzidic shared her thoughts, her tone suggesting that the main task for the year still lies ahead:
“I am preparing for the junior Europeans, and with this gold medal today, I believe I am one step closer to achieving something meaningful there. I am really thankful to my coach, my judo club, and my parents who support me throughout this journey. See you in Bratislava.”
With those words, she waved and departed, her sights clearly set on September.
The gold medallist in the -73kg category, Abil Yusubov (AZE), echoed the sentiments of Dzidic. Although he remained reserved about his selection for the junior Europeans, he expressed hope that today’s performance would support his team’s decision.
To secure the gold, Yusubov overcame Oren Aharon (ISR) in what was a hectic and eventful final contest between the two. “I am not sure yet if I will be going [junior Europeans]. We still have a training camp starting on Monday. In any case, I am very happy that I managed to win all my fights today. I am really grateful to my coaches and my family.”
The home team also celebrated a bronze medal win by Iva Bodganovska (MKD) in the -63kg category. Day two of the competition will begin at 10:00 (CET). You can follow all the action live online via judotv.com.
Images: Bojan Ilieski
Author: Szandra Szogedi