Dutch women, Italian men qualify teams to Paris 2024 Olympic Games

The two squads were tied at 3-3 after three sets and the Dutch men closed with a 57.

Italy had 38 points on the board, with Mauro Nespoli and Federico Musolesi’s four arrows already downrange. Alessandro Paoli rose to the occasion, putting down two 10s and roaring in celebration.

“The last end was incredible,” said Nespoli, who won Olympic team gold in 2012 and was individual runner-up last time in Tokyo.

“I was terrified during all the matches. My teammates were amazing and shot very well, better than me. Qualification is so important, the last time [at the Games], I was alone.”

Mauro dropped to the ground at the target, burying his face in his hands.

“It will be my fifth Games and it is very emotional for me,” he said. “I need more time to understand.”

The qualifying journeys for these two European nations are mirror images.

Both finished fourth at the last world championships, both had archers in the individual qualification event held earlier this week in Essen – and both entered today’s bracket without an Olympic quota.

But both finished the day with tickets to Paris 2024.

Competition continues at the European Championships with compound finals on Saturday in Essen.