New Delhi:
India's biggest medal hope Vinesh Phogat at the Wrestling World Championships defeated Olympic bronze medallist Sofia Mattsson to start on a high note. Vinesh Phogat began her campaign with a commanding 13-0 win in qualifying round in the 53 kg category on Tuesday. Vinesh, who was handed the "toughest possible" draw in form of Mattsson, dominated the match secure the victory.
Vinesh did not allow her Swedish opponent any chance as she took an early 4-0 lead over with her attacks around the waist. The Asian Games gold medallist extennded her lead to 13-0 in the dying seconds pushing Mattsson out of the mat. Mattsson challenged referee's decision but did not succeed as Vinesh had her foot inside the line.
Vinesh had recently beaten Sofia on way to the Poland Open title-win last month. Vinesh will now lock horns with world number two (in 55kg) and reigning world champion Mayu Mukaida of Japan. If that hurdle is crossed, world number one and last edition's silver medallist Sarah Ann Hildebrandt will await the Indian in the quarterfinals.
