PARIS, Aug 10 (Reuters) – The penultimate day of the Olympics saw a string of historic achievements across a range of sports. It was full of gripping moments, starting with a marathon and ending with a thrilling evening of athletics.

In a groundbreaking moment, Algerian boxer Imane Khelif won a cruiserweight gold medal against China’s Yang Liu at Roland Garros, making her the first Algerian woman to win a gold medal in boxing, despite confusion over her gender eligibility.

On Saturday, Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting, who has been at the centre of the gender debate, will fight. Meanwhile, the energy and excitement increased as Japan’s Ami Yuasa, making her Olympic debut in the men’s freestyle, beat Lithuania’s Dominika Banevic in a thrilling women’s bout.

The United States won the gold medal in the women’s 4×100-meter relay despite a relay misfortune that cost the men’s team. Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet and Belgium’s Nafissatou Thiam added to the highlights with triumphant track performances. In soccer, Spain secured a dramatic 5-3 victory over hosts France thanks to two goals in extra time from substitute Sergio Camello, winning their first Olympic men’s soccer title since 1992.

(With inputs from agencies.)