Nigerian U-18, U-20 teams shine at IHF Trophy in Abidjan
By Olaolu Joseph
It was a triumphant Monday for Nigeria’s U-18 and U-20 women’s handball teams as both sides secured emphatic victories at the ongoing IHF Women’s Trophy Zonal Phase in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The U-18 team staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Burkina Faso 36–33, while the U-20 team delivered a commanding 52–8 win over Togo.
In a gripping U-18 encounter, Nigeria overcame a three-goal halftime deficit after trailing 20–17. Burkina Faso had dominated the first half with fast breaks, coordinated wing play, and forced turnovers.
However, Coach John Uzor’s side responded in the second half, rediscovering the form that saw them beat Togo the previous day. With improved defending and decisive attacking play, they overturned the deficit and sealed the win.
The U-18 team will face Ghana in their final Group A match on Tuesday at 1 p.m.
Meanwhile, the U-20 team, coached by Shittu Agboola, overwhelmed Togo in a one-sided affair. From the first whistle, the Nigerians applied relentless pressure, executing swift fast breaks and maintaining a suffocating defence that left Togo with few opportunities to respond.
Next, the U-20 team will take on Benin Republic on Tuesday at 5 p.m. as they continue their quest for the title.
