DILI, 21 July 2025 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste’s Deofia Barreto claimed the country’s first gold medal at the 12th CPLP Games after defeating Portugal’s Gabriela Filipa in the women’s 46kg taekwondo final.
Barreto secured a dominant 2-0 victory, winning the first round 1-0 and outscoring her opponent 3-0 in the second round.
Speaking to Tatoli at the Dili Sports Hall on Monday, Barreto dedicated the medal to the people of Timor-Leste.
She said the win was the result of months of disciplined training, with a strong focus on technical skills, physical conditioning, and mental preparation to take on the experienced Portuguese athlete.
Barreto acknowledged Filipa’s strength and international experience, adding that overcoming such a high-caliber opponent made the victory even more meaningful.
She advanced to the final after a commanding semifinal performance against Angola’s Jasmin Cassia, winning 2-0 by scoring 15-2 in the opening round and 7-3 in the second.
Journalist: Natalino Belo
Editor: Xisto Freitas da Piedade
Translation: Camilio de Sousa
