Day 12 BBC Four: 22.00-02.00 Olympics

COMMENTATOR: The player not allowed in the front court but is everywhere

normally, he is ubiquitous. That is a key position libero. Italy had a

win in straight sets of this event in the London competition four years

ago, battering the United States and played the Brazilians in the semi

and were beaten in that. They went on to win the bronze medal match

against Bulgaria. The Iranians get us under way in the

quarterfinal match in Rio. A semifinal place is on offer. Another

good serve. Always looks severe bomber but this man is a demon from

the baseline. The Italians have a chance to attack. We will see a lot

more of that from the player with Russian roots, very much wearing the

colours of Italy now. He is a passionate character. He is an

aggressive character, and they need that.

That adds to his tally, 28 spike of the competition.

And the opportunities spilled out of the hands. They kept it going. Good,

strong rally early on, and into the net. Italy score. Zaytsev read that.

It was a desperate move in a sense, because he was the only one on that

side of the net and had to move to his right. And the chance goes for

Iran. Ebadipour comes to the back, and that is him. What a piece of

receiving. Iran have the serve. That is critical, to maintain the

service of vantage. It was a good score, all about that split-second

decision-making. Iran have kept it going. Finally, the finish.

Brilliant defence from Iran. But not for long.

Birarelli has missed the game and a bit, so we will let him off. He

missed the game against Mexico and suck out the game. Actually, he was

ready to go, but never came on against Canada.

That is a formidable spiking technique Zaytsev has. Great reach

and break power in the follow-through. When he came on

against Canada in the last match, it was a different game altogether.

There is something of the streetfighter about Zaytsev. Lovely

celebration. In a sense, a dream team. They feel, having been the top

team in their group, they want to build this now. That is the blocking

machine. Zaytsev, and a thumping serve. Too much on it. That is

always the danger when you go for that power serve rather than the

floater. You have got to judge it to perfection. Even players the quality

of Zaytsev get it wrong. Even stevens early on here. Cheap point

given up straightaway. Iran offering the serve back to Italy.

A series of missed cues here by Italy.

The captain is so precise, never hurried. Juantorena knew exactly

where that was going. Cross court, in the corner. No way anyone was

going to get near that. Monday but perfectly, Juantorena. If you

recognise the name, it is not surprising. His uncle was a famous

Cuban. Iran response right away. That is a costly rotation. He may

kiss the ball, but he has kissed the point goodbye. Service faults being

traded in this opening set, getting off to the best possible start is so

important. Straight into the net again. In terms of it going over,

not even close. This is cheap from Italy. It goes back to the old word

that is familiar in volleyball, momentum. Keep it going. Nothing

builds confidence like winning. Italy are into the lead once more.

But no opportunity to build daylight between themselves and the Iran for

the heavily fancied Italians. Receive, set, Spike. All done so

quickly. Marouf is the smallest man on the

court. The Italian serving is misfiring here. Already, that is

five service faults from the Italians. That is half of the

Iranian tally. It is poor from them. They are all square here.

That is poor from Simone Giannelli. The spike was fired straight at him.

Off the block. I don't think there was a block on it. It came out wide.

No surprise to see a time-out being called. The Italians are not having

it there in way in this first set. -- they are not having it their own

way. That is a dangerous game when you

have got Zaytsev operating like that. They isolated that Blocker,

Ebadipour losing out in that head to head with Zaytsev. Italy back in

control. Zaytsev wants more of the block.

Thunderous from Zaytsev. They had two blockers there. But he knew what

he was doing, aiming almost to get off the block.

Down the line, beautiful. No response to that, and I was only one

block there anyway. Those super slow-mo 's enhanced the spectating

of any sport, let's be honest, but in volleyball, you get a real sense

of the reach of these players, the heights they can get to. Well

defended by the Iranians. And then Italy with another set, and a

finish. They thought they had done enough in that first phase attack,

but credit the Iranian defending. Juantorena timed it to perfection.

That is a free pass now. Can they put it away? Good block. The

overpass came straight back for Italy, and they didn't kill it.

Filippo Lanza at full stretch there. The Iranian captain, Marouf, experts

set, multi-award-winning. It is his unhurried approach which calms

Mahmoudi and others, who can get quite emotional. Back on level

terms. Repeatedly, it is a deceiving server. It swerves and dips and

spins. It is not always easy to dig. Top stuff from Iran. There is the

captain. It was simple, and they split the block on the Italian side

of the net, Birarelli completely isolated.

Birarelli, the captain, doing what he can do. Piano could be joining

soon. Here is Piano. That is an ace. Wonderful. If he finds his range,

Iran could be struggling. We see it so often. It is difficult

enough to win a point in volleyball and get your serve back. But when it

is given up as easily as that, it is difficult.

Though, well, they all left it for one another on the Iranians side of

the net and the Italians have caught a break. Expecting the Spike and

this time they played something different. Just out. There are

challenges allowed at these Rio Olympics. They have the Hawk-Eye

cameras. Italy going for it. Felt it was in, why not give it a go? Well

through the match. Two challenges per set, was it in or out? That's

the decision facing the Hawk-Eye officials. Did the serve land in or

was it in Sao Paulo? That was out. Well worth it, but that means, as

you can see, they just have one challenge remaining. If they'd won

it, they would still have two. Playing it safe with the serve, and

when they get the serve right, running onto it, having something of

a purple patch, beer rarely. Isolating the blocker, which is key

to killing the attack. The set and the Spike off the block and the

Iranians have scored. Not the deepest of Serbs from Birarelli. --

serves. Another strong serve. Doing what he

does best, coming in from the wide right wing position, is a yet

serve -- Zaytsev. You can mix it up, he can go crosscourt, but it is

knowing when to drop in the subtlety as well. Italy on serve and Iran

have scored, with Italy getting a taste of their own medicine. When

they stick together, there is little comeback. The best blocker but also

a mighty finisher too. That's a good serve, it was out by not very much.

The temptation to go for the challenge. Italy can increase the

lead if they go further ahead. Zaytsev going big and into the net.

At this stage in the set, it becomes, as much as anything, a

battle of nerves. The little floated serve, Italy set and they've just

gone into the believe again. That's what it means. We are seeing Oleg

Antonov coming on now. One of the replacements, the substitute player

who played a lot of the game against Canada and by the end he had found

his rhythm, especially with his serve, which is why he's been

brought on. If he picks up where he left off against Canada, Iran may be

on the back foot. Great top spin on that server. That's a good score

from the Iranians, my -- my -- ten Faye again. -- Mahmoudi again.

Oh, Mahmoudi. Down the side. What a brilliant pass, absolutely

brilliant. It was a good set as well. The buzzer sounds, Italy

time-out. Not surprised. Three more scores are required here, to take

the set. 22-21, Iran are on serve. It is a

bad -- Ebadipour deserve, skimming the net. They'll take that. -- to

serve. Italy are to serve. If they keep the standard up it's going to

be some match. Giannelli to serve again. A good serve as well. Second

contact and the third and it just cannoned off the shoulder. Zaytsev.

Iran, edging closer. The top scorer of the match, Mahmoudi. You can

understand the furrowed brow of the captain, Birarelli. That wasn't the

finish that Zaytsev wanted, but off the block, the dig that and happen.

Zaytsev will be disappointed. Perhaps getting a touch lucky there.

But they have the serve and if it is a clean ace they will have set

point. Dear me, not the time for another service fault because Iran

have set point. Interesting times inside the Americans Ennio here. Two

-- Maracanazinho. Whenever they are approaching

something important in the set, an comes Mahdavi. This is dumping

difficult -- on comes. Italy breathing a sigh of relief. That

depth, it wasn't the easiest dig. So, the first set, you have to be

two scores clear to take the set. It is in play, the key part. Oh,

what a block from Zaytsev. That was mighty. Ghafour, only just on the

court, letting fly, but Zaytsev blocked it outstandingly well. Just

to disrupt here, Iran call a time-out.

How far have they come over the last few years? Climbing up the world

rankings, taking Poland, I watched the match, they were outstanding.

They had match points before Poland and could have closed it out for an

historic first Olympic victory. Instead they squandered their match

points and eventually, Poland took them out. So now, Italy, with the

captain, Birarelli serving for the first set. Continuing off the block.

Trying to go down the line and off the block from the Italian defence,

Ghaemi. Saving one set point. It's a case of thinking clearly under

pressure. Again it is the running serve and it is a deep one. Italy

receiving it well, Zaytsev. Iran get it. The team in white get it for

another set point. Well played, gaffe or -- Ghafour.

If this serve is good... Ghaemi going strong into the net, another

one going for glory and another set point has been squandered. Italy

have gone level. They have the chance to push forward for their own

set point. And here is the man to do it. Is over. It seemed to bobble

over the net. And off the block, Ghafour strikes again for the third

set point. Zaytsev, has this set slipped away?

It was a risky league. They've just got it right. Back court, the

Italian defence. -- risky leave. Here come the changes. Playing here

as a wing spiker, but he has a good serve. He has been brought on to do

a job. That is a floater and it is too long. You could see what he was

trying to do. Iran, the defence moved aside to let the ball drop.

Making the right decision. What's that phrase, you had one job. He

didn't make it there. Mahmoudi here for Iran. Iran are on their fourth

set point. Defending, and that finished by Italy, wow. 28-28, went

who is going to blink first, this is key. If Italy were to get ahead, how

would Iran react? The more experienced international

competitors. That was a good dig by Zaytsev. And Juantorena. They have

the serve. That first dig in defence from Italy was crucial because Iran

were playing catch up in the rally. Italy enjoying the set and finishing

the point. So it is a second time out here.

Very experienced, in charge of the national teams of Spain, Poland and

Germany. Coast in Italy, Greece and Poland. A wealth of experience --

coached in. And they are benefiting, the way that they have beaten some

of the top teams, although they are up against it now. Quarterfinals,

Italy with the second point. Ooh, just going down, pouncing up over

the net. He knew what he wanted to do, Birarelli but the ball didn't

fall where he landed. Iran were up against Cuba earlier in

the tournament. They are bedding in for the long haul.

Can they finish this set of? This could be a scramble.

The captain, Emanuele Birarelli. And for all that effort, Iran have

suffered a first set defeat. Italy pushed all the way, and you can tell

there was relief as much as joy when that ball landed on the Iranian side

of the net. DAN WALKER: amazing stuff at the

Maracana Xenia Knoll. Italy take the first set. I know they were

celebrating as though they had won the match, but we could well be in

for a long night here on BBC Four, because this is best-of-5 and you

can see how evenly matched they are. Stay with us, we will get back for

that. I know lots of you have sinned through messages on social media,

asking about the guy on each side with the different coloured shirt

on. I will explain the role of the Libero. But let's just bring you the

BBC Four day 12 headlines. In the men's football, Brazil beat

Honduras 6-0 in the semifinal. They go into Saturday's gold medal match,

where they take on Germany, who got the better of Nigeria by 2-0.

We all know it's not been a great Games for Team GB's boxers, and

Savannah Marshall today lost in her quarterfinal against her nemesis,

Nouchka Fontijn. Nicola Adams and Joe Joyce are the only two GB boxers

who remain. We have seen a lot of Rajiv Ouseph

on BBC Four, and he was also out today at the quarterfinal stage of

the singles badminton. He lost 2-0 to Denmark's Viktor Axelsen.

On the track today, there was another stumble, but Mo Farah

produced the goods once again. He managed to finish third and goes

into the final of the 5000 metres. He will be going for his fourth

Olympic title in the final tee up to the 10,000 metre gold he won the

other day and the two golds from London four years ago.

And Charley Hull is in a good position after the first round of

the women's golf here in Rio. 3-under par round for her today, and

she is three off the lead. Now, on BBC One right now, you can

see that Team GB are in a very good position in the fourth quarter of

their semifinal against New Zealand. 3-0 up, so the bronze medallists

from four years ago set to be into the gold medal match. They will be

taking on the Dutch, who came through their semifinal against

Germany. We will try and bring you that, I imagine, on BBC One over the

next few days. Now, cool Delta sent a message

saying, watching the volleyball, came in halfway through. What does

it mean that they have a member of the opposition on each team? It is

not that. The player with a different coloured shirt is called

the Libero. There are slightly shorter than some of the other

significant units on those volleyball sides. They are the free

player. They are restricted to being a back row player. They cannot

complete an attack. They may not serve. They are not allowed to block

real attempt to block, and they must wear a different coloured shirt from

the other members of the team. And they are not allowed in that

different coloured area by the net. Keep your eye on the Libero and keep

your eyes on this one, because Italy took the first set. It is going to

go all the way, I have a feeling. It is best-of-5 sets. Let's go back and

rejoin our commentators at the start of the second set.

COMMENTATOR: Good block. He is the best blocker. He was trying to go

crosscourt, but Saeid had got his hand where he wanted it. Italy are

looking to get off the mark. They manage it.

A breakthrough in the world league of 2015 for the Iranians. Well, it

is a risky manoeuvre at the best of times and it wasn't the best

contact. It was almost like he took his eye off the ball, Seyed. He was

given the window, but couldn't push through.

That one worked, but Italy were reading it. A block against Seyed,

magnificent. Again, thwarting Zaytsev. The jump, the height and

reach over the net were perfect. It's not just about the block, it's

arranging your hands so it turns into a kill. That was long.

Juantorena, maintaining this top six rotation. Coming in for the kill was

Ebadipour. The decoy was Seyed. That came wide off the block, I

think. Just off the elbow of my roof. Well, like

in any sport, it is a combination of technique and skill and a bit of

luck, and that was the case there with that Italian score. Poor set,

too close to the net. That gave every opportunity for the blockers

to be ready, and then put pressure on Lanza, and they lost the point.

Better set, and that is why you need a good set.

What are they going to do? Goodness me, what force behind that serve

from Zaytsev. That is superb. They need a bit of a lift here, and they

need this man to provide it. He was an Olympic gold medallist for the

USSR, his father. He was playing in Italy at the time, and Zaytsev was

born there. And he's becoming a hero for Italy. It worked so well in the

first set. Not on this occasion. The twists and turns by the Italian

blockers, and the ball move go crosscourt, and Italy have a two

break. Zaytsev has been the architect of this. He wanted the

ace, but not that time. Too long. Looking for consistency in that

power serve, but not finding it. A smile from Ebadipour. Absolutely

brilliant. Try doing that at home. Absolutely superb, the plunge down,

the dive and they win the point. They go for power, but of the block.

When those arms are strong, the ball just ricochets. And in court as

well. You're always expecting one team's level to drop-off and one

side of the net to see a run of points. It hasn't happened in the

first set or the second here. The Italians were pushed all the way in

that opening set, and the second is going exactly the same, nip and

tuck. Italy have the serve on this occasion. If you're hurting, you

know the other people are hurting. Both sides were at it. Iran knows

it's no good feeling sorry for themselves, they have to do it

again. And once more, they are back in the front. Wow, 12 for Italy.

That is 12 scores that have been offered to Iran here. That is a lot.

If you're talking about winning gold medals, you need to cut that out.

There is another service fault. That is three service faults in a

row, two for Italy, one for Iran. Italy draw level. Some spectacular

rallies, but this is intense competition. They know what is at

stake, a place in the semifinals. For Iran, on their first Olympic

appearance, this is an occasion to be treasured and also won if

possible, against one of the top teams in the world.

He has done it again, Seyed! Superb. Three men in a line, an Iranian

wall, and the tallest, Seyed. Off his left arm, it drops down

obediently, and they are back in front.

Birarelli goes over. That was easy for Italy to receive, turn from

defence to a fence, and then Birarelli kills -- from defence to

fence. I thought that was going out of the

arena! It is another service fault. One step forward, but Iran seemed to

take two. No end in sight to this misfiring on the serve for Italy.

Zaytsev! When that happens, volleyball is made to look easy.

Incomes Zaytsev, the specialist. He goes crosscourt and Lancet. -- lands

it. You've got to admired the

partnership, he knows where he's going to be, Mahmoudi. Seyed was

waiting. Making that part of the net his own, blocking and attacking.

Take that. Birarelli, huge presence at the net. Standing over two metres

tall. Time-out is not called by Italy. Piano, two of his eight.

Clever, Colletti is just as good and Zaytsev, fantastic defence from

Iran. The third contact must tip the ball over the net. Here come Italy,

Iran still defending. The second referee intervened, there was a net

touch which is why Italy have taken the point. A big point, that, as

well. And so easy to get close to the net and touch it before you hit

the ball. Over two decades since they last failed to make a Olympic

semifinal in the men's Whalley ball. The right channel and he really

found the finish, Mahmoudi smack volleyball. He was onto it in a

flash, man moody. Two blockers, no problem. They covered the cross ball

Ashya's -- Mahmoudi. Was that one of the Iranians attackers on the back

line? Was the libero infringing as well? Rejected, so we stay as we

were, 14-14. Fantastic value, great entertainment and we still possibly

have four more sets to go. Zaytsev again, and the tip. Two touches says

the referee. Just the hands possibly of Mahmoudi is not working in

unison. Not just a question of picking it up and doing it again,

the left-hand and the right-hand. So, we go again here at 15-14,

neither team has had a lead of more than one. But this is the

quarterfinal, the Olympic Games. A semifinal place is on offer against

the United States. 15-14, Italy are on serve. This is going to be a lead

of two for someone but the first time in the match. Great defence and

I think it is, they thought they had scored off the block. Oh, 15-15, it

has gone against the Italians, that's why you can see the animation

on the sidelines. The code leading the fight, no surprise to see the

challenge. -- the coach. They turned away in absolute conviction there.

So, Italy claiming there was no touch, it went straight through the

block and therefore they should get the point, not Iran. Not agreed, the

referee has said that it was off the block. So, Ebadipour, 15-15. Take

that, from Lanza. If the referee isn't going to help us, we'll help

ourselves. Back court power, Buti was there as the decoy, there is

Lanza. Only one in the block and no way he was going to beat back in

that split second. A demonstration of exactly why the quality of the

set has to be there for either side. A good, deep set has the attacker

running on it from back court, plenty of follow-through. A better

angle to aim it down and over the net. Here come the Iranians. Now

there is a lead of two. 17-15, Italy on serve and they have set

themselves up at the business end of the second set. That's super, really

good net play, superb defence. Antonov has come on and has

delivered. Maintaining the service again. It is good. The block is

ready but so too is Lanza. And again, off the block, it is 18-15.

The change has worked. Antonov comes on and it is two good Serbs in a row

and what was one point is now a 3-point lead -- serves. And there is

the buzzer. Iran needs to break the concentration, break the Italian

momentum. First big challenge for Iran in this

match. They've stayed with them until they were just partying at the

end of the first set. Now, Oleg Antonov, as you may have guessed, he

is Russian. It came back on the Italian side of the net and they

kill it, four points clear. Very rare that we see no defence of the

pup from Iran. Almost a free score. 19-15. -- the defence of Iran. The

switch for Antonov. Just going for gold, but it was too long. Even so,

it is a big move forward which is why Buti was so fulsome in his

praise. Giving Antonov, young player making his way, although he is 28

years old, starting his international career, a big boost.

Coming back Woods off the blog, is eight serve getting what he and

Italy wanted -- coming backwards off the block, Zaytsev. One of the best

in the world, he seems to hang there and somehow mobilises that huge

power through his arm. Giannelli, more confidence and it's the ace.

Look at the speed, 100 kilometres per hour. They've made the break and

they are going for the line. Talk about game management from the

Italians. Never more than one school clear until we reached around 16 and

then the coaches made the switch and Italy have really turned the screw.

Leading by five. Given away. The service faults, we've seen a lot of

it from Italy in the first set and they haven't eradicated the issue.

Here they are, going back to their A formation in the face of adversity,

the Iranians, it is Ghafour and Mahdavi coming on. That's caused

problems for is eight serve. Very much advantage Iran -- it is

Zaytsev. And they have taken the point. Again, it look like and

innocuous and innocent serve, floated over but even Zaytsev

couldn't deal with it properly, that is the skill of Mahmoudi. Deceptive

in the air. The Italian lead was five, not any more. It was in, the

Italians aren't happy about it. No, no, no, they say. They claim it was

out and the referee agrees. You wonder if there is going to be a

challenge. Can't believe it. The referee is absolutely adamant. No

challenge. The backspin on that. It came along,

23-18, the advantage is back to five here. Italy creeping towards the

finish line in the second set. It's a big set, isn't it, 1-1 or 2-0.

Psychologically, it will affect the team who have won the set. If it is

Italy, just one more will be required. Kill block, here come the

Italian team. So, the Iranians are back on serve. You can see the

confidence growing and coursing through the Italian team. When

they've made the break, the serves that previously were going too long,

now the pressure is on Iran. It is set point, Italy. Juantorena, you

knew from those cheers. The captain, Birarelli, who has the chance to

close out the second set. Off the block. And off the blog, it

is a simple, 25-19 and Italy, having been pushed to extra time, in the

sense that they were pushed in the first set, this time they've done it

in regulation -- lock. And Iran have just about pushed Italy in the

second set -- block. Italy have the big-game experience and telling

Serbs from Antonov. STUDIO: -- telling serves. Italy against Iran

in the men's volleyball quarterfinal. We will be back for

the third and possibly decisive set. Talking in the break about the

importance of the libero, I just want to show you the work of

Marandi. On BBC One while we showed you the volleyball, Team GB have

been involved in the semifinal of the women's hockey and the good news

is that they have won 3-0. They are into the gold-medal match. You can

see what it meant. That game against the Netherlands, the number one

ranked team in the world, will take place on Friday. 9pm, UK time. Team

GB, led by Kate Richardson waltz, taking on the Americans after

beating New Zealand come principally 3-0. A fewer early scares, New

Zealand had chances -- a few. New Zealand, dejected, and the bronze

medallists, Team GB, have a chance to go for the Gold Medal against the

Netherlands. A lot of you getting excited about the arrival of the

Copacabinmen and I can tell you that they are preparing the circuit

training area. No sign of Antony Worrall Thompson but we'll keep out

a close eye. Normally at this time we are preparing for the arrival of

the bin men. If you are watching for the first time, they waved to us,

they are called Raphael, Donatello, Pedro and Alejandro, so they are 50%

there to being the Teenage Mutant Binmen. Tonight we thought that they

had come. We recorded this 15 minutes ago. This is a brand-new

development. Enter Sandman! This is the fellow who smooths out

the sand on Copacabana and gives it a bit of a clean. Now, you do not

get that at Copacabognor. Incredible scenes. We were thinking we might

slow that down for you for some intense replay action. There you go!

That, my friends, is slow motions and action. You do not get that on

BBC One. -- slow motion sand action. If the Copacabinmen come, we will

bring you news on that. Let's get back to the volleyball. Third set

from the Maracanazinho. Italy 2-0 up. They have to win this at Iran to

keep the match going. Let's pick up the commentary.

COMMENTATOR: Maybe we are going to see the Italians mixing it up here.

Cheap point given away. That was either going to be a brilliant

serve, fooling everybody, or just disappear.

Wow, so powerful from Filippo Lanza. You could see he was primed. Just a

big leap. Italy into the lead already. Absolutely huge leap from

Juantorena. Again, it is the confidence game.

Oh, that was super from Zaytsev. Absolutely brilliant. The best

players improvise, and that is what Zaytsev did there. He made up for

his error earlier. He pushed into the back the court. Not only did he

get it over, he placed it and won the point. That is why you look to

your defensive specialist, the libero, and say, you should have

been factoring that in. It didn't happen for Iran. You just

wonder if this entire fixture now is slipping away from the Iranians. You

talk about the intensity of the match. If you have done it again and

again like the Italians have, it asks a lot of the body and mind to

keep so alert. Well, when it works, it really

works. My roof again, swooping like a swallow. It is like a football

match. Maybe a smaller team could keep pace for 70 minutes, and then

in the last 20, the more experienced team starts to make that experience

and expertise tell. There is a screen of players waiting

on the Iranian side, trying to camouflage where the ball might go.

The point, of course, is to get over the net. That is not what Ebadipour

managed. Zaytsev has his knee braces on.

Iran get the nod. It can often be more down to luck than judgment as

to who wins the point. Off the block. Italy are back in the

ascendancy. Clever by Giannelli. The block was close. He could have set

it. It went off Seyed's head! They all count. But that was not what

they were expecting, and it paid off.

Good placement, Ghafour. And brilliant by Marouf.

That was the expression which said it all.

Oh, brilliant! Giannelli, and again, it's that speed of thought at the

net. ", Kill. He went for the spike of the previous point. This time, it

was the left arm over. To execute that crosscourt spike,

you have do stand pretty much side on. Off the block, so Iran are

edging back. Zaytsev, thank you very much indeed.

Slapped that one away. Receive and kill. Move and fire. Zaytsev, just

down the right of Marouf. Wow, that looked to be going out but

was just off the block. They have found the accelerator, but there is

a red light from the coaches. Big trouble for Iran if Italy start

to move away. Just in, not by much. It just lands

on that red line. Zaytsev is not sure, because he turns around and

wants confirmation. Another absolute storm as a serve. When they get that

serve right, boy, it looks good. Zaytsev, right-wing spike again of

that block to make it look easy. Iran are reeling. They are making

the changes. Ghaemi is coming back. Just trying to freshen it up. You

sense that this is their sixth game on their Olympic debut. They have

played outstandingly well. They are learning all the time, but now they

are coming up against hugely experienced teams, players who have

been around and played top-level international volleyball, and it is

telling. Good swing. Not even Juantorena

could keep that up. Yes, two sets down, but still having their

moments, Iran. They just need more moments like that. That is not

going to help their cause, their big Spica, Mahmoudi, taking a breather.

They need all their big players at the moment. Good decision-making at

the net from Ghafour. But Italy take the point. Maybe the

second official spotted a net touch. The Birarelli, two metres tall and

still gets the ball off the floor. This was brilliant from Birarelli.

He gets there, but to keep it in play is a different skill entirely.

We know Zaytsev is a full on customer. And he is there with the

spike. Zarini is one of the guys they brought on to provide some

fresh legs here. The Italians started in Atlanta in

1996. They medalled only wants at the Olympics, in 2008. What a serve!

Absolutely outstanding. Completely deceived everyone. Even his

team-mates didn't know where that was going. In a hurry to get this

done and dusted, Italy. Time-out. Silver medal in Atlanta for Italy,

bronze in Sydney, Silver again in Athens. So they have had their fair

share of gold medal match heartbreak. Fourth in 2008, and back

on the podium with a bronze at Earls Court in London. Don't talk to them

about the gold medal. They have never won it, and that is their big

target here, having made such a great start and now heading towards

the semifinals, seemingly. Maybe this could be their Games.

What a good serve, skimming the net. Lanza with the chance to finish and

down the line it goes, 17-10. Iran must feel they are treading through

concrete at the moment. Everything seemed to work at one stage, Italy

took those two sets but they pushed them all the way. Here, they are

being left behind, like the marrow from one who thought he was on

course for the Gold Medal but the more experienced companion decides

to click on -- the marathon runner. It is the familiar change for Iran

in an adversity. Zaytsev still gets it wrong. It was long. Never mind,

they'll kick on. 17-11, Iran back on serve. It's a long way back for

Iran. Waving the flag is. -- flags. The referee confirming 18-11. Lanza,

a mighty swing. And here comes ros seeny -- Rossini.

Floater, that's not a good one. Not at all, they've just dropped off,

the Iranians. Again it seemed such a simple serve but it caused

confusion. You don't get the sense of the swerve that the players can

put on it. Iran, up to 12. Well played, Ghafour. Has the ball in

hand. Isolating the blocker, Juantorena.

It is one point two score for Italy. He is so important for them, that is

why they were worried in the game when he landed awkwardly on his

ankle against France, early on. He carried on, he didn't want to miss

that because previously they had been whitewashed against France,

losing the last five matches, but that start has been built. Antonov,

the key player from the second set. Just at the net. Zaytsev comes. But

he doesn't conquer. Good block. Buti returns but if you look at the

sadistic 's, 32 points scored between Zaytsev and Juantorena --

the statistics. It has been too piecemeal from Iran. What a good

serve, but it's just out. The line judge had his flag down. Looking at

it, isn't he, really staring it down. Are we going to the video?

Juantorena is saying it is out, he left it, it is out. Off-balance

there. 22 playing 14 now. Italy are up against the semifinal and if you

listen carefully you can hear keys jangling. The first three sets.

Italy are on course here to take their place in the last four with

plenty to spare. OK, service fault again, that's the mistakes of the

first set again but the advantageous is still seven. What has Seyed got

in the armoury? Strong, off the block. Juantorena taking another

point and Italy are almost there. Two more points. The first to 25 or

two points clear. Lanza back, the wing Spica. Presence at the net.

Italy defending it, they are at the net again, Juantorena to try and get

things going. Iran is scrambling, this will be some save if they can

win the rally. Close to the net. Zaytsev in. Here they are with nine

match points, Italy are on the verge now of cementing their place in the

last four where they will face the United States. The US, as we know,

clean sweep against Poland earlier. Russia against Brazil or Argentina

in the other semifinal in the men's volleyball. Juantorena, is this

going to be? Strong serve. Iran set, they will have to wait a bit longer,

24-16, Iran is Irving. It sounds like they have an advantage -- Iran

serving. It isn't like tennis unless it is a really belting serve. That

was too long. He can't believe it. I think it is hoped more than

expectation. It was a mighty swipe. Oh, no, what a way to bring it. The

Iranians captain who has done so much to entertain and drive forward

his team, his service fault hands the match to Italy, 3-0. It looks

easy, especially in the set. If you ask Zaytsev or Juantorena or

Mahmoudi. Without him on the court, Iran were not the same proposition.

Gradually wearing them down. It's another semifinal for Italy at the

Olympic Games. STUDIO: Great stuff in the volleyball in the marathons

Ennio. Iran merely pushed the Italians -- really pushed. As

Jonathan was saying, Italy, once again into the last four --

Maracanazinho. So many of you enjoyed that. We are going fair at

2am, but if you really want to see some intense volleyball, that's the

best way to put it, Brazil against Argentina in the fourth

quarter-final, that will be on the Red Button and also on the website

and app. My editor is listening, may be we can show you the best bits of

that tomorrow. Yes, we will. I'm making decisions for him. So many of

you have enjoyed the volleyball. Diving and taekwondo in a moment. We

have a crowd here, good evening, everybody. Are you all Brazilians?

ALL: yes! Are you happy with your team? Yes. Are you going to win the

final? No! Nice to see you enjoying yourselves. In case you missed it,

Brazil beating Honduras 6-0 in the semifinal. Germany getting the

better of Nigeria 2-0 and our German friends, enjoy your corn on the cob,

gentlemen, it only costs ?1 50 and it is very tasty. We have some

diving and taekwondo coming up later. I enjoy reading your messages

through the evening, I'm glad so many of you enjoyed the coverage, it

means a lot to us here. Steve Collins says that after the

brilliant slow motion sand smoothing, any chance of some other

slow motion activity on the beach? We will find out. The hashtag many

of you are using is Copacabeachcomb, which I wish I had thought of all

stop someone saying we should draft in Richard Attenborough. Somebody

else says that they are ill but they are watching the volleyball and

loving it, the saga of the binmen is putting a smile on their face.

Daniel says that they have sand combers on the Isle of Man. Ten

minutes ago during the deciding set in the volleyball, the boys were

back and doing a magnificent job on the beach. Let's look at them going

past. It was our favourites, Raphael, Pedro, although I don't

think Donatello was there. There they are. They had the night off

yesterday, we had some different binmen. The boys are back and they

do a magnificent job. I think that's a new tractor. It's lovely, lovely

to see them. We chat with them every day. Doing a great job on the beach.

Getting a lot of binmen in the UK contacting us as well, we were

talking to build yesterday about the fact that he thinks there going to

be some kind of bin Olympics in years to come, some kind of

discipline. He said that in Sunderland, his crew have been

training, the bin bags throw, the garden wall hurdles and the snatch

and hide, apparently! If you were a bin man or in the woman, maybe you'd

like to get in contact and we'll have some new faces -- bin woman. We

have some brand-new people joining us. Get training. I've not seen

these chaps before. This is the beach drag. Always popular. There is

a poodle as well. Did he come here last Wednesday? Hold on. Hold your

horses. Anthony Watt old Thomson has just arrived, he is on the end, he's

getting his trainers on -- Anthony Walker Thomson. Great to see him

again. He claims to speak no English, but we all know that it is

actually Antony Worrall Thompson. I think that is nine consecutive

nights of doing circuit training. Credit to the man, that is

impressive. Well done, AWT. We always say, no AWT, no party. We

don't really say that! Shall we have some diving? Jack Laugher has been a

real success in the games, winning the Silver Medal in the three metre

springboard and the Gold Medal a week ago with Chris Mears in the

synchronised three metre. We have some ten metre platform diving, the

preliminary part of the competition. We have Tonia Couch and Sarah Barrow

trying to get through the preliminaries into the final. Let's

show you how they got on. Strong finish from Tonya, not her

best finish but it is good enough and clean enough and she has

progressed through -- Tonia. We wanted safe passage through to the

next round. Tonia safely through. Well done, Tonia. Good work today.

She will be better in the semifinal. Not her very best. She is

comfortably through. We can safely assume she is there. Fabulous

effort. Not quite keeping the splashdown, I don't think that's

good enough for Sarah. Disappointing for her, strong take-off, losing her

feet a little bit. Just not quite keeping the splash down. She needs

to be close to 300 points I think to make it through to the semifinal.

She will be 20 point shiner of that. Yes, she is. Oh, dear.

Thankfully, Tonia Couch got into the semifinal. We will pick up with her

later. Afterwards, and understandably disappointed Sarah

Barrow spoke to Helen Skelton. Sarah, hard. There are two is to

look at that - one is disappointing, but then it rounds off the heck of a

fight to make it into that team. Definitely. I am disappointed not to

make the semi. My ultimate goal was to make the final. But like you

said, it has been such a hard fight. Not getting selected for the singer

and then having to change my mind set and do my individual dives again

and come back from a horrible injury, my goal was to get here in

first place. My parents are so proud that I achieved that, and that is

fine for me. Tell us about that injury. Some of the commentators

were saying doing those dives must have been painful. How difficult

have the last couple of years been? Really difficult. In the World

Championships, I did those dives with stress fractures. Both my shins

were cracked. That is hard in itself, but when you are with

asynchronous partner, sometimes you do it for the other person. When you

are on your own, day in, day out, getting through those dives is so

hard. My legs have not worked as well as they did before the trial is

back at home. I have hit the border couple of times. It has not been

great. It has just been hard to get through each session. But in the

competition, they didn't hurt. You have hinted at retirement. Is this

the end of your diving career? I am just going to take tonight. I'm

going to go back home a rethink, see what happens. Lots of people are

very proud of you, Sarah. Tonia, European champion. You guys have won

medals at Commonwealth is back, at Europeans, at World Cups. You have

done a phenomenal amount for the sport. You must be proud. I am

proud, and I am proud of Tonia for coming fifth today. The medal is not

out of reach. You fly the flag for young women. As a sports fan, thank

you for all you have done. She should be proud. And a timely

reminder, as we see Sarah Barrow upset at what happened in the diving

preliminary, it is about getting inspired. These Olympic Games do it

for so many people. We were hearing about Adam Peaty, who won the first

gold medal of these Games. It was Adam Peaty four years ago who was

seeing an old schoolmate of his competing at London in 2012. That

gave him the kick up the backside he needed to get back into training and

sort himself out to come here and have such an amazing Games not only

for himself, but for his family and Team GB. Via the BBC website, you

can go to the Get Inspired site. Through there, you can access any of

the clubs that are playing an Olympic sport where you can compete

in some of the sports. We have had lots of people enquiring about

sailing, rugby sevens, taekwondo. That is a really good facility. It

might be for you or for your kids. It might be about finding the next

generation of Olympians. There aren't genuinely people watching now

on BBC Four, I know we are having a bit of fun with things going on on

the beach, but there are people watching now who four years down the

line might be Olympians themselves, and that is genuinely inspiring.

That is why the Get Inspired section of the BBC website is a great place

to go. If you are watching and thinking, I want to have a go at

that. We turn our attention to taekwondo now, because over the next

few days, there are some real Team GB people you should be looking out

for. Jade Jones was the gold medallist and champion in the

Olympics from four years ago in London. She starts the defence of

that total at 2.30 tomorrow. She is under the 57 kilo category. She

takes on the Moroccan. She is the overwhelming favourite to defend the

title she won four years ago. Her housemate fights in the heavyweight

category on Saturday. She has a great chance as well. She is the

current world and European champion. Hopefully, she can add an Olympic

title to that. And the winner of the bronze in London four years ago, he

fights on Friday. None of those are in action tonight, but we are going

to bring you one of the semifinals from a different weight category,

the under 49 kilo category. We are going to see Mexico take on Serbia.

Before we see that, let's give you a quick guide to how taekwondo works.

Taekwondo originate in Korea and combines combat and self-defence

techniques. It became a fully fledged Olympic sport in Sydney in

2000. Each contest has three rounds of two minutes and a competitor can

win on points or if their opponent is unable to continue. Points are

awarded for permitted, accurate and powerful blows to the opponent's had

an body. Attacks to the body can be made using a fist or foot, but an

athlete can only use their feet to strike the area above the collar

bone. Punches to the head and attacks to the spine are not

allowed. The only techniques permitted our kits ready athlete

uses the area of the foot below the ankle, and punches, where the

athlete uses the knuckle part of a tightly clenched fist. Scoring

differs depending on where or how an athlete has attacked. One point is

awarded for a valid attack to the body protector, but if the attack is

turning or reverse kick to the body, it is worth three points. An athlete

will receive three points for illegal kick to the head, and if it

is a turning kick, it achieves the maximum four points. After the three

rounds, the competitor with the most points wins the match, but in the

event of a tie, a golden point over time round is held in which the

first athlete to register a point wins the contest.

So let's go to the Carioca Arena 3 in Rio and the semifinal in the

under 49 kilo category. COMMENTATOR: Here comes Itzel

Bastidas, looking confident. She has had a taster of what is to come. I

think she will be coming out all guns blazing. Let's see how she

fares against Serbia's Tijana Bogdanovic. Tijana Bogdanovic looks

much more composed. I was impressed with her focus in her previous

fight. She didn't let the challenge of faze her. What a challenge it was

as well. That was an incredible fight. It looks like she is the more

focused. But every athlete prepares in their own way, so don't

underestimate Itzel Bastidas. And she will not be underestimating

Bogdanovic by any means. The referee is getting things ready to rumble.

It has been bubbling away nicely. And the super young Serb, Tijana

Bogdanovic. Making sure the helmet is securely on. You don't want it

sticking up to high. Often with athletes with longer hair as well,

that does push the head guard up even further. But all the protective

equipment is in place. Bogdanovic tries to flick a head shot up. So

flexible and so fast. Bogdanovic is looking down slightly. Some of the

athletes have almost been looking towards their opponent's eyes. You

cannot for a second take your eye off the legs. That is where most of

the moves will come from. You make an interesting point in terms of

athletes liking to look eye to eye, some at the shoulders, some at the

waist. But as you said, you have got to watch the feat. Both ladies are

focused here, in this first round. Almost there from Bogdanovic. She

went for the head shot. Bogdanovic hopping forward.

Both fighters seem to have the measure of one another.

The crowd cheering on the Mexican, who almost land they had shot.

A little power gauges appearing on the bottom of your screen. If you

land with enough power, a sense in the souls of the feet will score

automatically, but you need impact. It has been a powerful opening. Very

impressive, but neither was able to score in the first round. They only

have a minute to recover. It is stop-start between rounds. It is a

long day for these fighters. We can hear the words of the Serbian coach.

It is a very long day. You have two win, compose, fight, recover. Talk

me through the way in. What happens? I know in some sports, it is a few

hours before, but in taekwondo, it is the day before. Yes, in

taekwondo, you get to have a few days of recovery. That is often

needed. How much, how many killers do you reckon they have put on since

yesterday? Not as many as us in the commentary box! Huge moments in the

semifinal of the Olympic Games, final at stake. The Serb,

Bogdanovic, is in red. And you know what colour the Mexican is in.

When both fighters have one leg in the air, they are able to generate

so much power from the back leg. Bogdanovic changing stance, trying

to draw her opponent in. And good tactics from the Mexican. There is a

clashing of styles at the moment, and indeed legs. It is getting a bit

scrappy. They need to maintain that composure.

They are scrapping for a spot in the Olympic final. The under 49

kilograms contest is very much open. The Chinese champion is out. The

Croatian is also out. The Mexican and Serb will know that the draw is

opening up nicely. So much at stake. A picture perfect shot. The Serb

steals a lovely three points. Talk about timing. That one gives her

opponent something to think about going into the final break before

the third round. Right on the buzzer,

as you say. We see it from the overhead shot. It shows the distance

it has to travel. Look at the accuracy, flicking onto the face.

Flexibility and force. Just about catches with a big toe, but it is

enough for the sensor to make contact. She will be dancing tonight

if she can get into an Olympic final. Bastidas, from Mexico, has to

produce something big here. Bogdanovic is really composed. Good

defence behind that front leg. When you hold your leg up like that, it

leaves no space on either side. The Mexican is finding it difficult to

find a space. We are going to see the tempo in this round picking up.

Bastidas has to find something now. She cannot be content to sit back

and allow Bogdanovic to control the fight. You are right, the tempo is

important for the Mexican. She has to change stance. She's falling a

bit short. Power punch from the American and

feedback leg. Blocked by Bogdanovic, not allowing the clean contact. The

Olympic Games final coming here. Tijana Bogdanovic slipping back

here, avoiding the drop kick from Bastidas. What a battle this is

turning out to be. We know things can change quickly, the Mexican will

have to do something quickly now. Such an intense workrate all stop --

workrate. Great response from Bogdanovic, that's what happens,

timing and the perfect counter kick. Perfect timing with 20 seconds left

on the clock, Bogdanovic is in a commanding position with a 6-point

lead. Serbia have had an Olympic champion. Tijana Bogdanovic taking

another headshot to close a fantastic third round. She's into

the Olympic Games final. What chance for Serbia winning to repeat that?

Bogdanovic, in with a shout, she's into the final. There you go, the

first bit of taekwondo action we've shown you from these Games. Day 12

and plenty more to come, loads over the next few days and we'll bring

you Jade Jones, who is on tomorrow. A bit of an update for those of you

who haven't been following the Maria de Sezar hen do saga. She turned up

on a hen do and we invited her on, we had a chat and it went bananas

and it's been watched, somebody told me, something like 16 million

people. She's been doing interviews, her family have been asked, her

fiance is and Belo Horizonte. Yesterday, her mother showed up and

she gave us a beautiful invitation to the wedding on September 17. She

said she would send her husband to say hello and he arrived, Ivan was

here a few moments ago. He said his English wasn't good enough to come

on TV. I tried to persuade him, he was a lovely man, cycling home. He

thanked me for the coverage, his daughter has been excited. He says

he has had interview requests and the rest of the family as well, it

has been a big story over the last 24 hours, in Brazil as well, the top

two on social media, in all of the papers. American journalists have

been ringing up the family as well. The bottom of the story is that fail

a nice family, she was having a hen do and has become a part of the

magic -- they are a nice family. Hold on, right on cue, the binmen

are back. Come on, boys, yes! You know it makes sense. Copacabinmen,

what a magnificent job they do. They've been the stars of our

coverage on BBC Four. Antony Worrall Thompson is here as well, this is

like Ghostbusters when they cross the stream is! He's just going to

come in now, here he is, doing his work. He's been training for nine

days straight. What he doesn't realise, so many people in the UK

are delighted to see him turn up every night, it puts a smile on

their faces and perhaps without knowing it he has been the real

superstar of our coverage. We have asked him for an interview but he

says he is just here to interview and he says that his name is

Raphael. Who knows? Jade Jones, we said that she won the Gold Medal and

she is the favourite to defend that title. Before the Olympics we got a

word with her. COMMENTATOR: You little beauty! The

teenage kicking superstar from North Wales is the Olympic champion.

That's it, the well champion. Is a lot of what you do today trying

to programme the subconscious so that anything that happens, you can

react? Yeah definitely, it is a totally new system, we haven't been

used to going that way, it is harder to score. Going high on the punches,

we've had to completely change our game. I watched you train, sparring,

hitting each other, defending with pads, now I want to go to your house

because you are housemates, you lived together, you are friends. Is

that all right? Yeah. How is it, living together because you have

literally come from a session? It is good that we are different, if it

was a house of 57s I wouldn't get too close because they are opposite

ends of the weight we can help each other out. It is just you two here?

Yeah. The question is, why do you have two fridges? She is the

heavyweight! LAUGHTER I can see you are definitely focused

on Rio, lots of food. Can I see where you chill out? Jade, four

years ago, London 2012, Olympic champion, did you expect that? It

was like the journey going to the Olympics, it was fast, I came to the

academy in 2010, only two years before and no one expected me to go

to the Olympics. It went so fast and six months ago I was picked and I

gave everything I had in training and I believed I could win, I was

going there to win. But when I did it I felt a bit lost, so much

pressure, I felt so lost. But now I'm in a good place, I'm just trying

to get to do it again, really. Have you had to try and fall back in love

with taekwondo? Yeah definitely. There are times, there is a hard

loss, you don't want to do it any more, it is so hard and I'm not

enjoying it. But I go back to why I did it as a kid, I love taekwondo

and I wanted to win. You don't know why you want to win, you want to

win. And Bianca, was it difficult, Jade winning a gold, she is

obviously your friend, you are pleased she won but for you, you

couldn't compete? It wasn't nice at all. We lived together and I was

training with her and the next minute I broke my leg and Jade went

and won the Olympics but I can't do nothing about that. It can happen. I

can take it one way, I could hate her, but I take it the other way,

look at what she's done, I can do the same thing. It feels even more

special. This is our chance to both get a gold together. It could be a

big few days for the taekwondo housemates. We will show you Jade

Jones and Bianca over the next few days. That first semifinal in the 49

kilo category. The other semifinal, who else goes through, this is him

of South Korea. Let's go back for the second semifinal. COMMENTATOR:

What a massive moment for Kim So-hui, the 21-year-old marching

into the arena. The semifinal of the under 49 kilograms grouping.

Yashmina Aziez, the French fighter. What a force she is. 25-year-old

from Lyon. In terms of which of these fighters has the advantage in

height, it must go to Yashmina Aziez. 5'8" compared to five feet

five, Kim. We are looking at a three inch difference, about three

centimetres. Fairly substantial. It may play a part. It will definitely

play a part, as we've seen so far. Who's going to stand the tallest in

this battle? Yashmina Aziez. Her coach there. Conrad Jenkins, the man

in the middle, from Jamaica. I think this is a gym in this competition.

The first day of taekwondo in Rio. -- this is a tremendous competition.

Both of these women mean business, the final is at stake. Kim So-hui is

in blue and Yashmina Aziez, her French opponent, front and centre.

Kim So-hui is much quicker off the mark and good footwork. Both

fighters getting the measure, working out the distance. The first

attack coming from Yashmina Aziez of France.

Kim So-hui is being very patient. As you said, the first attack. The

footwork, so ballistic and athletic. -- balletic. Good fake as well,

pretending to move. The Korean is so adept at changing the timing of the

opponent by faking. Aziez missing. Kim coming in a bit more at the

moment, I would like to see. Not challenging at all, she is waiting,

looking for the opportunity. The shorter of the two, Kim So-hui would

like to work from the close distance, so faking, trying to draw

the taller fighter. A good opening so far for Aziez. A big occasion,

the Olympic semifinal. Both fighters leaning back. It is Kim So-hui's

footwork and her faking that is putting the pressure on Aziez who

has worked the harder. Kim just staying far enough back out of

range, looking to avoid any punishing kicks. The master of

distance, Kim So-hui. Nothing to separate them on the scoreboard.

Clash of styles there. I feel like Kim didn't really get into the first

round. She's going to need to issue is going to score some points. Aziez

is the one who was looking for the opportunity.

Play to your strengths, advertising there. The French contingent, they

have something to cheer about. Kim So-hui, so patient and calm come on

the back foot. What will she produce here in the second round of the

under 49 kilogram semifinal? Faking first and footwork burst, the style

of the Korean. Aziez trying to come forward. The kick was well blocked.

-- footwork first. Kim is trying to get inside, to get a bit closer.

Trying to find her range. She isn't being allowed in very much. Aziez

has the longer limbs, keeping Kim So-hui on the back foot. Intense

battle so far. A battle for territory. Kim So-hui firing in a

little turning kick. Eyes wide from Aziez, she's having to focus

resolutely here. Olympic final at stake, no one wants

to make a mistake. Difficult for Kim So-hui now to get

onto the front foot. An understandable impasse here. The

Olympic Games final beckons. Good footwork from Kim So-hui. Good

response from Aziez. So close. Aziez is beginning to miss a few

here. You have to wonder whether this work by Kim, who is just moving

backwards and forwards, leaves as is doing all the hard work. She is now

the more fatigued fighter. Absolutely. Kim So-hui is happy to

put the pressure on and draw out the response from Aziez. For that

reason, she has found that back leg turning kick on two occasions.

Hasn't found the scoreboard, but getting closer. As you say, much

management is so crucial, using that energy. But we know Aziez has the

flexibility. Last bit of encouragement both coaches.

Who is going to be on the podium later? So much to be decided here.

Do you think they will be thinking about the final already, or are they

focused on winning this? Kim So-hui again going back to that

patient style, try to shut down the moment.

They are cancelling each other out at the moment. A mistake from Aziez

almost left the door open. You mentioned the energy expended by

Aziez. She is under pressure. There is the back leg turning click again.

-- turning click. A consistent pattern emerging. There

is a sudden death round. Whoever scored first would win, but you

would fancy the same here as we get into the last stages. The time is

ticking away here. Who is going to commit? They will

have two commit to a sudden death round now. Whoever scores the first

point is into the Olympic final. Change of tactics now in terms of

the type of kick they choose to go for. It is very much on the length

of kick. Every kick is a different length and covers a different

distance. You have to pick the right one. Kim So-hui has been defensive

and hesitant. Does she go for it now? Does she stick or twist? Aziez

has the flexibility. Don't discount the punches as well. Conrad Jenkins

separates them. Gold medal territory now. Well blocked by Kim So-hui in

blue. Kim So-hui almost scored. Lovely

block from Yashmina Aziez, the French fighter. This has been so

difficult to separate the two of them.

As is really putting on the pressure now. Kim So-hui is beginning to rock

under the pressure. Back leg turning kick from Kim

So-hui, and she is into the Olympic Games final. Composure, patients and

precision. That little power shot underneath the guard. Excellent from

Kim So-hui. She played a very patient waiting game, and it paid

off. There you go. More taekwondo for you

over the next few days on BBC Four. In a moment, we shall be live at the

table tennis. We promised you some amazing action, China taking on

Japan in a gold medal match for the men's team event. They play five

different matches across the different doubles and singles. We

will join them shortly. But we have another guest, live in the beach

bureau on BBC Four. Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to

Deb Murray, Samantha Murray's mum. Those of you who remember 2012,

Samantha Murray was one of our pent athletes who won silver four years

ago, and she starts the modern pentathlon tomorrow. Let's get an

insight into the mother's point of view. How are you feeling before the

first of a few big day tomorrow? Very excited and very proud, full of

anticipation. We can't wait to see what will happen. Anything can

happen in pentathlon. It is such an unpredictable sport. You have the

unknown element of the horses, and you have so many competitors, whose

form can vary from day to day depending on many different aspects.

So it is a really nerve-wracking experience. We can take you back to

four years ago. This was when your daughter crossed the line four years

ago for the silver. You will come into shot in a minute for a hug.

What if that mother- daughter moment like? In London as well, it must

have been incredible. It was just amazing. In front of a home crowd

are so many spectators and so much support, I don't think you could

ever match that again. Here in Rio, I know there have been issues. Yes,

people have been watching and saying, why are people not going to

the events? We have been speaking about this a lot to some locals.

There are various reasons. One is the cost of the tickets. One is the

fact that if it is not football, it is hard to get Brazilians enthused

about things, and the locals have also told us that sometimes, we have

a very British viewpoint on these things. Here, if Brazilians feel

they are not going to win, they are not interested. It is all those

things combined. That could be why some events have not been well

attended. It might be interesting tomorrow, because Marquez, who won

the bronze in London, is a strong contender. So the Brazilians may get

behind her. We have been talking a lot about getting the next

generation into things. Remind us of how the modern pentathlon works. The

fencing is the first event, which starts tomorrow. Yes, the fencing is

tomorrow. And the competitor, there are 36 competitors and they all fans

each other. Each hit the point. Then you accumulate points throughout the

rest of the day. Then you go on the swim. Ordinarily, the five events

are in day, but in Rio, because of the lighting and the length of the

event, they put the fencing on one day and the rest of the elements on

the Friday. On Friday, you carry on with the swim, 200 metres freestyle.

Samantha is a strong swimmer, so we are hoping for a good swim, possibly

an Olympic record. We will have to see. A bit of pressure! After the

swimming, you go onto the riding. And it is unknown horse. It is 12

jumps. You get 20 minutes to warm up. During that warm-up, you can

jump the horse four times, and that's it. So anyone who knows about

horses knows that that is quite a challenge and you have to use a lot

of skill. We have seen Charlotte Dujardin, and she has had a long

term relationship with Valegro. They know the horse and the horse feels

safe, which helps when you are trying to get that horse to do the

business. Absolutely, it is a completely different relationship.

You have the bond with the horse very quickly and make judgments. So

it is skilful and tactical. Once you have completed your eventing round,

you then go onto the combined run shoot event. The run shoot event is

shooting with a laser pistol. It used to be an actual air pistol in

the olden days. But now it is a laser pistol. That is to encourage

grassroots participation. Obviously, a laser pistol is much safer. And it

is good fun. So you come the 300 metre run with the laser pistol

shooting. -- you combine them. You visit the shooting range four times

in the course of your three K run. And your heart rate increases. That

is the skill, you have do make your heart rate slowed as you approach

the shooting range. I am amazed at how Samantha got into this. Was

anyone in your family involved? We have been talking about getting into

sport. How do you think, today I am going to be a modern pentathlete?

Modern pad tabs on is a very quirky sport, but it is such good fun

because it is so varied -- modern pentathlon. Sam was always a very

active child. I am sure lots of people have active children at home.

She used to go to running club and swimming club. And her grandma kept

ponies, so she always messed about with ponies. Somebody approached her

at a talent day and said you can run and swim really well. You know how

to ride. Why not take up the other elements of fencing and shooting,

and you could be a modern pentathlete? And it was at the time

when Stacy Cook had just won gold in 2000 at the Sydney Olympics, which

was the first time women had been involved in the sport. And Sam went

along to this presentation and saw a poster of this defeat cook. She had

the presentation and said, I want to be like that lady. She looks

amazing. Steffi Cook is now part of the commentary for these Games.

Exactly, so for Sam to meet her hero has been great. You don't decide

you're going to be in pentathlon, it is something you acquire the skills

to become. If you are a good runner and swimmer, look at the other

disciplines, which are very technical, and you could also be a

modern pentathlete. I was saying to my husband Tom Samantha's life as an

athlete has taken her all over the world and you get to come to amazing

places like this, whether beach is like sugar macro we have spent a lot

of time on the beach, we know how good it is! The reason it is so

smooth is because of the Beachcomber, but I will explain that

later. It is an amazing place. So you have a fantastic life where you

train as an athlete, you do varied sports that you enjoy and you get to

meet wonderful people like yourself. Steady on! Let me ask you about the

night before. Who feels it more on a night like to make? The competition

starts at two o'clock, ten in the morning in Rio. I am all right now,

but tomorrow I will probably be a total wreck. In London, we got to

the combined event, and I couldn't actually watch. I was in the stadium

and I was crouched on the floor. I couldn't look. And one of Sam's

friends who was with her said to me, get up, she's about to win the

silver medal! And made me watch. It is great because you are

wondering passed, your husband came over and said, that is the mother of

Samantha Murray. Pub quiz, she was the last Team GB medallist at the

London Games, number 65 out of 65. That's right, a Silver Medal. Let's

say hello to Steve as well. He's sorting his hair out. Nice to see

you, I am Dan, this is your wife! From your perspective, is it a

concern, are you cool, can you watch? Over the years, Debra has put

the hard work in, clearly with Samantha. Yes, stand there and see

what happens. Hope you have a fantastic day tomorrow and the day

after, enjoy the fencing. A big clap to our Olympic parents. People

probably think you are Gold Medal winners. I will milk it! Thank you

and all the best two Samantha, we'll have to make sure that we cover it

properly. Thank you so much. Samantha Murray will go tomorrow.

10pm here, to lay your time, the first event of the modern

pentathlon. Silver in London and she's had some good years, world

champion in 2014 and in 2016 as part of Team GB she was the world silver

medallist. The pedigree is there and hopefully she gets in the medals.

Shall we go to some table tennis? This is the men's team Gold Medal

matches, that is the best way to describe it, two of the great

nations, China against Japan. China winning the first match, the best of

five, we will join it now. Mizutani from Japan against his Chinese

opponent. Match two. Let's join our commentary team. COMMENTATOR:

Certainly looks like it, and Mizutani, the opposite, a lot of

positive body language from him. On his feet, applauding Mizutani.

Between them they've got the tactics right here. The manner in which

Mizutani is playing, not afraid to have a go, topspin against topspin

and he didn't back off. He had a weakness previously, allowing his

opponent to dominate but here, he's holding his ground a lot more.

Slugging it out with Xu Xin. He hasn't missed very many. High

level of aggression that he's been playing with. Xu Xin just spinning

the ball the bit more, not quite as fast as in the previous point,

slowing it down, heavy topspin. Nice couple of points, giving Xu Xin

a bit more hope in this second game. Mizutani has gone off the boil a

little bit. Using the reverse backhand really well, brushing up

the ball. The lead now, for Mizutani, down to one point.

Good job, into the body. What a comeback here from Xu Xin. Drawing

level, 5-5. Just missing the forehand topspin,

Mizutani. The Chinese are so mentally tough, you look at their

fitness and skill levels. 5-2 down, a lot of people would have lost

confidence, but Xu Xin... That's a nice stroke back. Stopping

what was a haemorrhage of points against him.

After losing five in a row, coming up with that to level it at 6-6

after having taken the first game. Good return of serve, reading the

spin and pushing it back ever so tight. Mizutani tried to take

initiative but it was such a good return, very difficult for him.

That was a great serve, the second bounce was going to be around the

baseline, Xu Xin didn't know whether to play long. In the end he has to

flick over the table. Mizutani coming in with the forehand topspin

down the line. Close one to call, 7-7.

That was such an important point for Mizutani.

He let it drop too long. Time-out. Clearly this isn't anything to do

with momentum because there is no momentum in Xu Xin's favour at the

moment, he clearly wants to talk to him about tactics and how to get in

front of the topspin. Interesting time to call this.

Perhaps it's because Mizutani was able to seal the opening game in a

tight point for point type situation. To be honest, it's a

relaxed and -- it's a reflection that the coach believes this is in

doubt. Why else would he have called the time-out? There's no momentum.

He just wants to reinforce the importance of play, how he can

dominate the rally. Returning from the time-out. Very

tight stages of the second game. Mizutani of Japan, having taken the

first, now with a one point fatwa and teach -- one point and --

advantage. That was a peach of a return, the placement was

exceptional. Outright winner on the return of serve. Xu Xin again going

around the backhand to play his forehand. Mizutani, two points from

taking the game. Reverse backhand, the return of

serve setting up the point that Xu Xin. Of course it will be Xu Xin to

serves at the end of the game. Very big point coming up now.

What a response from Xu Xin. You must admire how positively they are

playing. This catches the edge of the table, you can see. Catching the

edge of the table. He acknowledges his good fortune. By the finest of

margins it is 9-9. He did well, Mizutani, returning the

serve well, the strong forehand topspin, forcing Xu Xin away from

the table and now we have game point for the 2-0 lead for Japan.

That is terrific play from Mizutani. 11-9, he clinches the second game,

it is 2-0. Really holding his nerve in the closing stages of the second

game. Playing aggressively, a lot of self belief. There is the

celebration, going to the 2-0 lead. The Japanese coach, he is delighted.

Questions will be asked of Xu Xin. Mizutani could be the thorn in the

side of the Chinese team. I would love to see the game between

Mizutani and Ma Long, if we get to that stop very impressive

performance by the 27-year-old. And the edge goes to Xu Xin. Hasn't

had a lot of luck in this match. It has gone against him, but this time

he gets it. It was two reverse backhand topspin 's that have won

him the first two points. Super defence from Xu Xin, way back

from the table. Heavy topspin from Xu Xin, Mizutani

not getting his racket over the top. Got to get the bat over the ball to

compensate for the spin. This time, good fortune favours Xu

Xin. He was at full stretch there. Somehow managed to get his bat on

the ball and then good fortune stepped in as the ball trickled over

the net. Look at that, he is almost diving, looks like a goalkeeper

going to save a penalty. Quite a turnaround in this third

game. Two reverse backhand topspin --

topspins. A good push from Mizutani. It is not

often you see a push going as fast as that one. Took Xu Xin by

surprise. The ball was a bit lower for Xu Xin.

We have the Chinese women's team down, supporting the men.

A bit of cat and mouse at the beginning of the point. Xu Xin

launches into his trademark shot, overhit it.

Top edge of the racket, slightly mistimed it. It looks like a

terrible mess when the ball flies off, but it is just a fraction of a

second out in the timing. The ball hits the top of the racket.

A very different game, this one. The other two were very close, point for

point. But Xu Xin now has a big lead.

Rapid-fire rally, setting up game points for Xu Xin to get one game

back. Xu Xin taking the third game.

Japan's Mizutani leading 2-1. Best-of-5 matches. Interesting in

that third game. Xu Xin got off to the start, won the first three or

four points, and then it was one-way traffic. Mizutani has to forget

about that third game and get back to how he played in the first two

games. I am sure that is what the coach is telling him. The start of

the fourth game is all important for both players. Xu Xin, of course, has

to win the next two games. Mizutani just needs one of them. I thought Xu

Xin played his best game of the three but arguably, Mizutani took

pressure off of it. He wandered away from the table and didn't open the

strongly as he did in the first two games. But I am sure the coach will

be advising him accordingly. So much movement on that ball. It is

a blow to Xu Xin to lose a point like that.

Xu Xin returning with a reverse backhand topspin. Very skilful.

Brilliant. First topspin on the diagonal. Mizutani whips it down the

line. Great tactical play. In terms of that third game,

Mizutani seemed to have a little lapse. He has been brilliant at many

stages throughout this match. Even though he lost the point, I still

felt he was trying to be positive. In the third game, I thought he held

back a bit and played by his very high standards just a fraction

negative. That is perfect, that is what he has to do. He has to be

strong behind the service, keep the pressure on Xu Xin.

The other interesting thing psychologically, if Mizutani can

pull off this win, it would be remarkable. But then Xu Xin would

have to go into the doubles with a defeat on his mind. It may unsettle

the Chinese doubles pair. Here we are, talking about China being

almost unbeatable, and Japan now find themselves in a very healthy

situation. So much pressure on Xu Xin, with the immense responsibility

of playing this singles. Didn't play in the singles event here at the

Olympics. Started the tournament in this team event.

Coming up with the goods in that point. Great slow motion of that

forehand topspin. Good footwork to get around the backhand.

A bit of good fortune for Xu Xin. Just caught the top of the net,

trickled over. Massive points right here.

Mizutani has to match Xu Xin for mental toughness here. I know the

Chinese are tough. They have proved it time and time again. Being able

to produce those sorts of shots in tight situations, under incredible

pressure. You just feel the momentum now has

shifted to Xu Xin. I think we are going to have a time-out called. Of

course, if Xu Xin wins, then we go into the fifth and final game. That

really will be pressure for both players. It is a lot of pressure

now. Just a slight acknowledgement from

Mizutani. He knows he was a bit fortunate. I suspect overall, the

luck has been evenly distributed throughout this match.

Oh, my goodness! Total commitment from Mizutani. It was good tactics

from the Japanese player. That was the best shot of this match so far.

Look at the side spin, taking the ball out even wider to Mizutani's

forehand, but Mizutani didn't even bother to try. He was hoping to make

a winner on that return. It wasn't to be.

Xu Xin holding up under pressure here. Shrug off the shoulders from

Mizutani. Trying to loosen up a little bit.

Again, Xu Xin in with that rocket forehand topspin down the line.

Really responded in this situation, coming up with some of his best

play, deep in the fourth game. That's a good backhand. Going under

the forehand side to play the backhand. Gives himself a slight

lifeline here, but he's three points adrift, Xu Xin, with his final serve

in the sequence of two. He was going after it. 9-5, he was

up, now it is 9-7 and Mizutani with two serves. What a time to take the

points with the Serbs. Two serves. -- serves.

The reverse backhand, a lot of wrist going into that shot. Great

composure from Xu Xin. Extraordinary effort from Xu Xin.

Taking the fourth game, 11th-7, drawing level at 2-2, we will go

into a decider. So, what a match. Xu Xin and

Mizutani. I think the start of this deciding game is going to be

crucial. Of course we must remember that Xu Xin lost the first two

Games, 12-10 and 11-9, has won 11-3 and 11-7, so arguably the momentum

is with him but it's amazing how many players bring it back to 2-2,

you think they are going to run away with it and it doesn't happen. It's

about their mental approach to the game. I still think that the

gentleman is an -- the gentleman who is on the screen is the favourite.

If Mizutani makes a good start, Japan can get back into this final.

Good reaction from Xu Xin, after winning the opening point of the

fifth and final deciding game. He wants to keep the momentum of having

won the last two Games to level the match.

Just launched into the backhand topspin. Xu Xin created a point

winning situation, creating the rally so that Mizutani was away from

the table. Look how far away he is. The backhand topspin. Big point,

psychologically keeping him in the fifth and final game in the second

match. What defence from Mizutani, early in

the rally. But Xu Xin was able to put it away. What Mizutani mustn't

think is that he won the previous point away from the table, it was

wonderful to see but for every five points like that he's only going to

win one out of the five. He can't rely on that, he must get close to

the table. Exactly, taking the ball early,

putting Xu Xin under a bit of pressure, he missed time the reverse

backhand, getting the edge of his bat and look at the scoreboard, 2-2

in Games and points, it couldn't be closer.

How did Xu Xin stay in that point? If you see the replay, Xu Xin

gambled, he ran around the backhand, there he goes, and Mizutani put it

there. If he had gone down the line the way he has been doing, he would

have won the point. Liu Guoliang, you'd think he was playing in the

match! It's the Olympic final, it means everything. Liu Guoliang

there, Olympic champion and world champion himself.

The players will change ends when the first player makes five points.

Xu Xin will be hoping it is at 5-2, it would be a big psychological

boost for him to change ends with a 3-point lead. Mizutani needs a

couple points in the opening points of the final game.

Xu Xin, each point building pressure on Mizutani. Time-out called, 5-2.

Xu Xin, the deciding game. 5-2, changing ends, the time-out. I think

it's a good call because the momentum is definitely with Xu Xin.

So a chance to regroup, take a break. Try and give him the advice

that he requires. I think he knows what he has to do. Xu Xin is just a

great player. You know what you have to do, but it is sustaining it to

win the points, that effort, you can see that the strain is telling.

Mizutani is looking a bit at a loss after those two points, looking

skyward. Interesting to see Liu Guoliang's reaction to one of those

points, he knows that this is a pressure point in the final, he

knows that if Xu Xin loses, they will go to the doubles with Xu Xin

knowing he has lost his singles. Even though he is 5-2 up, it is a

pivotal moment in the final. What an encounter this is. The result is by

no means a done deal. Mizutani is trailing 5-2 in the deciding game.

Serve drifting long. Xu Xin pounced on it and what a strong forehand

topspin return of serve. The body language from Mizutani, talking to

himself, looking up, not looking nearly as confident. Four point

advantage, Xu Xin. He must focus everything on the next point, not

think about the fact that he was 2-0 up. That's a good return, keeping it

tight. Xu Xin launched himself into it but it forced the error.

This second match is a classic. It has had twists and turns. Are we

about to see another? Looked like Mizutani was going to win, 2-0 up,

Xu Xin wins the next two, takes the lead and now Mizutani is coming back

at him. Tremendous stuff. That was a brave return of serve

from Xu Xin. The long post, I was thinking he was going short or the

flick. That's probably why I wasn't any good! Grapeshot, the depth, and

the reaction from Mizutani says it all. -- great shot.

It was the great reversed topspin from Xu Xin and then Mizutani

stepped around with the counter forehand topspin. There's the

reverse and there is the countertop spent. Mizutani, keeping his focus,

trying to play as positively as he can. This can still be won by

Mizutani. It's going to be tough. He looks a little bit stressed. You

don't see that very often, Liu Guoliang. He's back on his feet, up

and down like a jack in the box in the corner.

Xu Xin keeping his composure. 8-5 in the deciding game.

And the short play won by Mizutani, who now has two serves to come. What

a time to take two points with your serves. Levelling the deciding game

at 8-8. Can he do it? The first serve is coming up.

Good play from Xu Xin, spinning the ball to three times and then he

launches the rocket, coming forward with the reaction. Spinning up and

then kicks. Good placement into the body of Xu

Xin. The problem now for Mizutani, as he has to return the Xu Xin

service, interesting to see the servers that Xu Xin will come out

with. It will be looking to get a good top-spin behind the serve. I

would be surprised to see a long and fast serve, but who knows?

What a well-placed top-spin? Into the backhand. Much to the delay --

much to the delight of the team in the corner. Lots of movement on that

bench. Thrilled to see their man arrived at match points. 10-7.

Mizutani, of course, now has his Serbs to come. He needs to be brave

and he needs to be positive behind the server.

It is all about what he can deliver right here, Mizutani. Two match

points. That was a weak return of service. I

do not like to say that about a world-class player such as Xu Xin

but it looked up and it was mid-table and dispatched into his

body. One match point remaining for Xu Xin. Talk about twists and turns.

He has done it. He held his ground and stayed close to the table. He

played positive table tennis, and he has reaped the reward. Showing the

belief out here, Mizutani, staving off match points, staying alive in

this match. What you sense is a pivotal match in this final. 2-2,

10-10. Spin, top-spin, how clever was that

from Mizutani? The ball dropped over the side of that able, he spun up

the back of the ball and he brushed and the ball was fizzing with

top-spin. After saving match points against him, Mizutani arrives at a

match point of his own. He has gone down on his knees.

Celebration for Mizutani, pulling off a huge upset here. Tense times

at the end of that fifth game, he takes it 12-10 in the decider.

Some brilliant table tennis action there and we will return to the

gold-medal match with China taking on Japan. When- one so far and the

men's double is up next. We are back on the beach. More excitement

because the Copaca- binmen are back. Can you see them under the palm

trees? Hopefully they will be strolling past us soon. It is guest

night on BBC Four. Let me introduce you to Kenny and Andy? Can you tell

when they are from? Where'er you originally from? Falkirk. Bathgate.

You are wearing a kilt every day, explain why. We wondered what would

be more fun, we follow the football as a Tartan Army so we thought we

would come here and do it for real and we packed to kilts and steep

pairs of boots and 21 T-shirts, one for each day. Yes, we have beachwear

and kilts are matters it. How has it gone down in Rio? You do get a few

looks here! Even here. The first couple of days it took three or four

days to go down because it was photographs all the time but it is

great because you are meeting Argentinians in Spanish and French

and Japanese and they are getting pictures taken with us and we have

pictures taken with them which is great. People watching back at home,

there was a lot of talk of empty stadium and people coming because

they were concerned the violence and security. You are saying how much

you have been enjoying it, you seen of that? None whatsoever. There are

places we have been to a decided not to stay very long but you can get

that in London so it's not bad. You walk up and down here and there is

loads of security and everyone feel safe, I feel safe. Ticket wise, not

been great. Talk about the tickets. Amulets have you been to so far? Ten

maybe. What's been the highlight? The road cycling is that highlight

and we choose the highest in the steepest hill and we were there for

the whole nine hours he met all the Spanish fans who were crazy for

their cycling and they had flags out and everything and the highlight was

running alongside Geraint Thomas in the final lap and shouting at him

and motivating him and getting in going and I thought I did a great

job and I was told five minutes later that he went round the corner

and crashed and I felt really bad and I thought it was my motivation.

You got into pumped up! I ran beside Chris Froome in my kilt and he

looked as though it wasn't happening. And he asked me how

Geraint Hughes was doing and I told him it was second. I run along side

Chris Froome only talk to me! That is a pretty special experience. What

have you lined up? We have tickets for Saturday night and the Mo Farah

race. Hold on, the binmen are back! Nice to see you! Al, they are busy

now. There you go! Wheel was get away from the Copaca- binmen. As you

well know, these guys are stars. You are saying about tickets and trying

to get to events in the next few days. We're going to athletics on

Saturday to see Mel as if he can do it again it would be amazing. We

will try our best to get tickets for hockey on Friday night but they were

sold out on the website but we will keep trying and hopefully we will

get them. There is a plan to get them but you are not sure yet. Yes,

we did the same with rugby sevens and went on the first day and stayed

in the second and went in the afternoon and then we had some GB

jackets and we stayed for three to the light and session, told with the