Canadian boxers Lisandro Garcia and Mehreen Khakh have advanced to the semifinals at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, securing two medals for Canada.

Lisandro Garcia (M55kg – The Boxer’s Club, ON) defeated his opponent from The Gambia by unanimous decision, securing at least a bronze medal. Mehreen Khakh (W51kg – Destiny Boxing, ON) earned a decisive stoppage victory against Botswana, advancing to the semifinals.

Unfortunately, due to an injury suffered on his way to today’s victory, Lisandro Garcia will be unable to compete in the semifinals.

“I couldn’t be more proud of Lisandro and Mehreen. Both athletes stepped into the ring with confidence, composure, and determination for their quarterfinal bouts. Lisandro showed tremendous discipline and control to secure a convincing victory, while Mehreen demonstrated her skill, resilience, and competitive maturity to earn her place in the semifinals,” said Brad Ross, Canadian Youth Olympic Games Team Coach (Tribal Boxing, NS).

The 2026 Youth Olympic Games will be Canada’s first ever medal performance in Boxing, after no medals won in 2018, and no qualified athletes in 2014 or 2010. 

Spectators can follow Mehreen Khakh as she faces Huseynova Gular from Azerbaijan in Bout #76 on November 11, 2026, at 7:15 a.m. Eastern Time. Livestream and results are available through WorldBoxing.org.