Sagi Muki (in white) defeats Wandtke
Sagi Muki (in white) defeats WandtkePhoto: Reuters

A taste of success for the Israeli delegation at the Rio Olympics.

After a string of dismal performances by medal-hopefuls Alex Shatilov (gymnastics), Golan Pollack and Gili Cohen (Judo) and shooter Sergy Richter, an Israeli athlete has reached the brink of a medal performance today (Monday).

Sagi Muki won his first three fights in the Men's 73 Kilogram Judo competition, reaching the semi-final round.

Muki defeated Rok Draksic of Slovenia, Igor Wandtke of Germany, and American Nick Delpopolo, the last in stunning fashion after trailing in the last minute and a half.

The Israeli Judoka will compete against Rustam Orujov of Azerbaijan in the semi-final round later this evening, looking to guarantee himself at least a silver medal and earn a spot in the gold medal bout.

Even if Muki loses though, he will have a chance to compete for the Bronze medal.

Should Muki break through, he will be the first Israeli to earn an Olympic medal since sailor Shachar Tzuberi in Beijing 2008.