After 64 of the 96 deals of the semi-finals of the World Bridge Teams' Olympiad were played in Maastricht yesterday an all-European final in the open event appeared likely. There was also the possibility of an all-North American women's final.
In the open championship semi-finals, which are being contested by the four group winners from the qualifying round, Poland have opened a commanding 74 points lead over the USA. Italy lead England by 20 points but the English are not allowing the Italians a clear advantage.
The USA women's team looked good as they established a comfortable 87-point lead over Norway. The other semi-final between Germany and Canada is much closer. The Canadians lead by 19 points, but it has gone back and forth. The result could be in doubt until the final deal.
Semi-final scores after 64 of 96 deals: Open championship: Poland 150, USA 76; Italy 135, England 115. Women's championship: USA 172, Norway 85; Canada 112, Germany 93.
In the transnational teams' event which got under way yesterday history was made when Israel met Palestine in what is believed to be the first meeting between the two countries in any game or sport. A strong Israeli side won the match 18-12, a result which was described as satisfactory for the inexperienced Palestinian players.
The transnational event admits teams of mixed nationalities. It is being run as a Swiss movement in which the leading team after every round meets the next highest placed opponent whom it has not previously met and so on. Transnational teams leaders after six rounds: 1 Volina (Russia); 2 Romik (Israel, Poland, USA); 3 Hackett (England, France); 4 De Lange (Netherlands); 5 Senior (England, Bulgaria, Canada). 68 teams compete. The championships continue until Saturday.