Ireland’s Kellie Harrington says she knew she was “up against it” after she moved one step closer to retaining her Olympic title by defeating Beatriz Ferreira in a thrilling semi-final in Paris.

Harrington beat the Brazilian in the final in Tokyo three years ago, and the semi-final was billed as a grudge match as Ferreira looked to get revenge.

It is set to be the final Olympics for the 34-year-old, who also has a world championship to her name.

“She’s a really tough opponent,” Harrington said. “I knew I was the underdog going into it, but I really enjoyed it.

“I think I’m happy because I’m coming to the end of my career and it’s allowing me to be a little more free.

“I just can’t believe it, it’s mad.”

It was a fast and frantic start at the North Paris Arena as both fighters, living up to the pre-bout atmosphere, looked to land some early blows, but Harrington was awarded the round 4-1 by the judges.

Ferreira was the aggressor in the second round, but every time she opened up Harrington was on hand to land a counter offensive.

Both fighters put their arms in the air as they returned to their corners after the second round, and the judges could hardly split them with 3-2 in favour of Ferreira.

That left Harrington 2-1 up heading into the decider, with two judges scoring the fight level.