COAS Shooters pulled off a major upset as they defeated defending champions Tojemarine Academy with a narrow 23–21 victory on Day 2 of the Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 1 in Benin City, Edo State.
The Nigeria Army side came out blazing, dominating, and outclassing the first half against their opponent with a commanding 17–8 lead and despite a strong second-half response from the defending champion Tojemarine, COAS Shooters held their ground to hand the title holders their first loss of the season.
Elsewhere in the men’s category, Rima Strikers of Sokoto secured their first win of the campaign with a 27–23 triumph over Adamawa Warriors, after taking a 15–11 lead into halftime.
Abubakar Abhar was the driving force of the Caliphate team as he scored 12 vital goals to help his team to win their first match of the season.
Niger United also continued their fine form with a convincing 30–25 win against Lagos Seasiders, while Correction Boys spurred on by their star player Muniru Dahiru who scored 9 goals, defeated newcomers Osun United 26–22, maintaining a steady grip on the game from a 13–9 halftime advantage.
Safety Shooters, led by Nasiru Hassan, proved their depth by claiming a 26–22 wins over Benue Buffaloes. They led 16–10 in the first half.
In the women’s category, the clash between Imo Grasshoppers, and Rivers Queens ended in a thrilling 23–23 draw. Imo mounted an impressive second-half comeback after trailing 13-8 at halftime.
Plateau Peacocks bounced back with a dominant 37–18 victory over Ekiti Queens, while Safety Babes made it two wins in two games with a solid 32–26 win against debutants Soof Omo Ogiefo, after controlling the first half 21–13.
2025 Ardova Handball Premier League Phase One Day Two Results
