In Accra, Ghana, a new generation of Nigerian handball players triumphed in the recent IHF Trophy Africa Zone 3 competition.
Nigeria was pleased of both the U18s and their seniors, the U20s, who took first and second place, respectively.
Although some West African up-and-coming talents were on display at the event, Nigeria’s U18 team took center stage.
Under the expert guidance of head coach Emeka Nnamani, the youthful Nigerian squad outperformed their regional rivals Ghana, taking a commanding 15-9 lead in the first half of play.
Sensing victory, the Ghanaian outfit fought gallantly after the break to try and overturn the deficit. However, Nigeria held firm as their athleticism, aggression and clinical finishing secured a 33-25 victory.
Jubilant scenes followed as the players revelled in successfully defending their Zone 3 title while earning qualification to the Continental Phase of the IHF Trophy.
“I could not be prouder of this squad,” said a delighted Nnamani. “They have so much potential and have proven they can compete against the very best teams on the continent.”
The senior U20 Nigerian side also impressed by defeating Benin 42-28 to claim bronze medals in Lagos
Meanwhile, Ghana’s U20 team made history by winning gold – defeating Ivory Coast in the final to reach the Continental Phase for the first time.
With both Nigeria and Ghana progressing, handball’s profile continues to rapidly rise amongst Anglophone West African nations.
The eyes of the continent will be on the traditional rivals when they clash with the top handballing talent from across Africa in the months ahead.
