The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games continue to captivate audiences with extraordinary performances and historic moments across various disciplines. One of the most significant developments came in the football-5 event for visually impaired athletes, where Argentina ended Brazil’s 20-year reign as Paralympic champions. The semifinal match ended 0-0 after extra time, with Argentina winning 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout. This upset marks the first time Brazil has been eliminated from the tournament since the sport’s introduction in 2004. Argentina will now face host nation France in the final, after France defeated Colombia 1-0.Brazil, despite this setback, continues to perform strongly overall, surpassing the 50-medal mark with a total of 57 medals (15 gold, 15 silver, and 27 bronze). Notable performances include Carol Santiago winning her third gold medal in swimming, and Rosicleide Andrade securing a bronze in judo. The Brazilian men’s goalball team also clinched a bronze medal by defeating China 5-3.Other nations have also seen significant success. Mexico’s Gilda Cota won silver in the shot put F33 event with a record-breaking throw of 7.89 meters. Venezuela’s Clara Fuentes secured gold in powerlifting, setting a Paralympic record by lifting 124 kg. In weightlifting, Clara Sarahy Fuentes Monasterios of Venezuela won gold in the women’s category up to 50 kg.As the games progress, athletes continue to inspire with their extraordinary performances and personal triumphs. With several days of competition remaining, including promising events for countries like Brazil and Argentina, the Paris 2024 Paralympics are set to deliver more thrilling moments and showcase the incredible spirit of Paralympic sport.
Key points
- Argentina ended Brazil’s 20-year winning streak in Paralympic football-5, advancing to the final against France.
- Brazil surpassed 50 medals at the Paralympics, showcasing strong performances across multiple sports.
- Athletes from various countries, including Mexico and Venezuela, have set new records and achieved significant victories.
