The semi-finals of the boxing tournament at the SADC Youth Games were concluded with some thrilling bouts on July 2.
In probably the best bout of the evening, Merlin Kilombo of Angola beat Johannes Simon of Namibia by a single point over four rounds in the 54kg category.
The fight started at a frenetic pace with both boxers giving it their all. Kilombo was the early aggressor, chasing Simon around the ring, but Simon replied with some effective counter attacks.
The frenetic action continued through to the final fourth round when both the boxers slugged it out to the delight of the fans.
Kilombo was adjudged the winner, 35-34 on points.
Budler overshadows Gabriel
In the 48kg category, Hector Budler of South Africa comfortably beat David Gabriel of Namibia 61-34 on points, while Shiba Simanga of Swaziland beat Douglas Mbewa of Zambia 33-17 on points.
In the 51kg category Namibiaâ??s Lukas Sakaria beat Emphraim Thamahane on a technical knock out after the referee stopped the fight in the fourth round.
Lukas was in charge from the start and in both the second and third rounds Thamahane received a standing eight count. In the fourth round Lukas connected with a crunching right hook that once again sent Thamahane to the canvas and although he managed to get up, the referee stopped the fight.
In another 51kg bout Luthando Banethi of South Africa beat Zambiaâ??s Douglas Mombelela 28-24 on points.
In the 54kg category, Rodger Mulenga of Zambia beat Moeti Motiisetsi of Lesotho 43-17 on points.
The finals of the boxing tournament will take place on July 4.