Kosovo has made a strong start in the judo competition at the Taranto 2026 Mediterranean Games, with judokas Dardan Cena and Akil Gjakova advancing to the quarterfinals.
Dardan Cena was the first of the two Kosovo athletes to compete, overcoming Spain’s Jose Maria Mendiola in the men’s -81 kg category.
Cena secured victory by yuko after a closely contested bout, earning his place in the quarterfinals.
He will face Serbian judoka Mihajlo Simin in the next round.
Akil Gjakova also advanced to the quarterfinals, giving Kosovo two representatives in the final eight of their respective judo events.
The results mark a positive opening for Kosovo’s judo team at the Mediterranean Games in Taranto, as the athletes continue their pursuit of medals.
