Nigeria women’s handball teams sent a strong message of intent at the ongoing IHF Women’s Trophy Africa Zone 3 Phase in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, with commanding victories over Ghana and the Benin Republic in the U-18 and U-20 categories, respectively.
In the Under-18 category, the Nigerian girls, led by Coach John Uzor, outclassed Ghana with a 35-24 win in a fast-paced and physical encounter, showing tactical discipline and attacking fluidity as they established a 4-goal cushion at halftime with an 18-14 lead.
The second half saw the Nigerian side tighten their defence and capitalise on Ghanaian turnovers, with standout performances from the wing players who executed fast breaks with precision to win 35-24.
The 11-goal margin at full time reflected Nigeria’s superior shot efficiency and defensive organisation.
Nigeria’s women’s under-20 handball team proved too strong for the Benin Republic, sealing an emphatic 42-30 victory. Dominating from the first whistle, Nigeria raced to a 22-13 lead at halftime, using aggressive defending and swift transitions to keep their opponents on the back foot.
Benin Republic struggled to deal with Nigeria’s pivot play and quick rotations around the 9-metre line.
Both teams now sit in strong positions in their respective groups as they eye qualification to the continental phase of the IHF Women’s Trophy, with a semi-final placement to be played on Wednesday.
