Deepak loses bronze match after a gallant display

A day that started off holding much promise and expectation fizzled out with both Indian grapplers Ravi Dahiya and Deepak Punia failing to win their respective bouts.

While Dahiya lost 4-7 to Zavur Uguev of Russian Olympic Committee in the 57-kg gold medal match, Punia put up a valiant show before losing 2-3 Myles Amine of San Marino in the 86 kg bronze medal contest. The 22-year-old Deepak started off his bout confidently securing a two-pointer. Amine responded strongly by reducing the deficit to one point soon after.

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With time running out, it looked as though Deepak would hold on to his lead only for Amine to whip out a crucial two points with less than five seconds remaining to plunge Indian hopes into despair.

India chose to go for a referral, but the jury's decision went against Deepak Punia. It was a disappointing finish for Deepak Punia who held the lead for much of the bout.