It was a particularly impressive performance in heavy snow. Johaug was the favorite after Saturday’s victory in the classic race, but it was going to be far more exciting on Sunday.
– No one would have thought so, I think. It was great, Weng exclaimed to NRK in the goal area.
She was beaten by 40 seconds by Johaug on Saturday, but already then announced that she would be closer in freestyle.
– I was very eager for revenge after yesterday. I think I have taken steps, and then I was a little far behind then, said Weng.
She showed sinister intentions from the start and was 3.3 seconds ahead of her teammate after 2.6 kilometers, and she kept that lead relatively unchanged throughout the race. The distance was also around three seconds after 5 and 6.3 kilometers, while Weng had increased to 4.4 seconds after 7.6 kilometers.
Along the way, you could see an embossed Johaug that was a little out of style.
– It is rare that I have seen Therese as tired as on this hilltop. I don’t think she hits on the technique. She survives on sheer capacity, said NRK expert Fredrik Aukland when passing 6.3 kilometers and was supported by Martin Johnsrud Sundby.
However, Johaug did not give up. After 8.1 kilometers, Weng’s lead was down to two-tenths of a second. Thus, it was a real battle for Weng to the finish line. And in the end she won by six tenths of a second.
The two were in a class of their own. Closest behind Weng and Johaug was Astrid Øyre Slind and then national team colleague Kristin Austgulen Fosnæs, both about half a minute behind.
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