Cvjetko’s flawless return lights up opening day in Portimão

Day one of the Portimão Junior European Cup 2026 had a proper big-tournament vibe: loud arena, tight contests and a stacked line-up. A total of 362 judoka from 23 countries stepped onto the tatami, pushing the level high from the very first round. In the medal standings, Italy finished the day on top with multiple podium finishes, while Spain followed close behind.

All eyes, though, were on Croatia’s Jana Cvjetko. The younger Cvjetko sister ruled the -70kg category and did not give away a single score all day. This event marked her comeback to the European circuit after about two and a half months out with a knee injury picked up following the 2025 Junior World Championships. She turned that return into a statement, taking gold and collecting valuable ranking points for the rest of the season.

From injury break to untouchable gold: Cvjetko sends a clear message in -70kg.

Despite a shorter preparation phase, Cvjetko controlled her matches with calm tactics and sharp attacks. There was no sign of hesitation as she moved through the draw, showing that her confidence and form are very much back. For the rest of the -70kg field in Europe, she has just raised the bar.

Another highlight came in the -73kg category, where two European medal winners from the 2025 Junior European Championships clashed in the final. Sweden’s Narek Vardanian, former European junior silver medallist, faced Italy’s Lucio Tavoletta, a past bronze medallist. The bout was tight, but in the opening seconds of golden score Vardanian scored ippon to take the title.

The women’s +78kg division brought a different kind of drama with the Spanish Coulibaly Toure sisters. Mama and Ballalo met in the semi-final, knowing only one could reach the final. Mama won the family battle and went on to claim gold, while Ballalo bounced back in the repechage and secured bronze. The action continues on day two, fittingly coinciding with International Women’s Day and shining a spotlight on the female judoka in Portimão.

Source: EJU_News