Fifth-seeded Germans Laura Ludwig and Kira Walkenhorst upset Brazilian favorites Larissa and Talita to advance to the women’s beach volleyball Gold Medal Match.
The German women narrowly edged out the Brazilians in the first set 21-18. Riding the momentum from the first set, Ludwig/Walkenhorst quickly took the lead in the second while the Brazilian women struggled to close the gap. Germany won second set, beating Brazil 21-18, 21-12 to advance to the Gold Medal Match.
Laura Ludwig and Kira Walkenhorst stand to win their nation’s first women’s beach volleyball medal of any color and, if they win gold, Germany’s second Olympic beach volleyball gold. Jonas Reckermann and Julius Brink secured men’s beach volleyball gold at the 2012 London Games.
Ludwig/Walkenhorst will play the winner of the women’s semifinal match between Walsh Jennings/Ross and Agatha/Barbara.