Nigeria's Elizabeth Anyanacho has lost out on the chance for a podium finish at the Tokyo Olympics.
Elizabeth lost to double Olympic Medalist and former world champion, Nur Tatar of Turkey. The duo, competing in the female -67kg, kick-started competition Day 3 for the taekwondo event.
A hope for a chance to battle for bronze in the event Tartar gets to the finals was dashed finally when Tatar lost to her US opponent Paige McPherson on Sunday by a golden round win.
Tatar who edged out Anyanacho 12 - 7 used her Olympic and world experience to capitalize on the inexperience of her Nigerian counterpart.
With 7 points to her name, Anyanacho showed glimpses of future brilliance against the world champion, but could not shake off the anxiety in time to overcome her top ranked opponent.
Reacting to the defeat, she said, "I lost to Turkey 7 - 12. Turkey then lost in golden point to USA after a 1 - 1 draw. This means I am totally out of fighting for a podium place at the Tokyo Olympics.
I have cried and I still feel hurt because I wanted to spring a good surprise, despite being 4 years early to my original Paris 2024 Olympics.
"It has been quite a journey. Truly, a long and challenging journey with a rollercoaster of emotions.
"It will be a difficult few weeks and months ahead of me, because I will keep replaying today in my head, and trying to replay all I could have done. But it is OK, because the lessons will help my development.
"I thank you for your constant love, encouragement and support. You are the best ever.
"Together, we will rise even higher," she said.
Honourable Minister of Youths and Sports, Mr Sunday Dare, who was at the venue to support Nigeria's second ever Taekwondo Olympian, reached out to encourage the 22-year old after the match.
"You have done well against a world champion. Keep your focus.
The taekwondo event has thrown up many upsets including defeats of double Olympic champion, Jade Jones of Great Britain, defending Olympic champion Hang Jun of South Korea and his compatriot, triple world champion Lee Dae Hyun of South Korea.
So far, Africa had recorded only one medal through the silver medal won by Mohammed Khalil Jendoubi
Egypt, Niger Republic, Morocco, Mali whose athletes competed in day one and two have also failed to reach the medal stages.
