Filipino-Ivorian Maxine Esteban proved that she is in condition for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics after a silver finish in the 22nd African Fencing Championships in Casablanca, Morroco on Friday.

The former UAAP fencer of the Ateneo De Manila University lost by a slim margin against Egyptian fencer Yara Elsharkawy by an 8-9 score.

"Silver in the African Championships' 24! Missed the gold by 1 point but I'm so grateful for this! God is so gracious. Thank you so much to everyone who helped me get this! To God be the glory," Esteban wrote in an Instagram post.

The eight-time former national champion Esteban struggled to break the deadlock at 8-all against Elsharkawy as the Egyptian fencer showed grit late in the match to fend off Esteban.

Esteban dominated Malak Hanza of Panama in the semifinals, 15-6, and took down Egypt's Sara Arm Hossny in the quarterfinals.

Esteban now shifts her focus to the upcoming Paris Games as there is a huge possibility of facing Filipina fencer standout Sam Catantan. NICOLE ANNE D.G. BUGAUISAN

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