Italy overcame a determined Korean team 45-35 in the semi-final of the junior men's foil team event.
The other semi-final was a much closer encounter with neither the giant-killing Russians nor USA able to establish a convincing lead and the final fight was level at 37-37 with just over a minute remaining. A flurry of hits followed and the Americans seemed to have taken the advantage with a 2 hit lead but Russia made a final frantic push to level again at 42 all before time ran out. Meinhardt of the USA had priority in the extra minute and finally clinched the match 43-42 with a calm riposte.
Russia will have regroup for their bronze medal match against Korea while Italy and USA prepare to battle for gold.
Photo courtesy of Denise Wilson