Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-03-15 07:48:41
Team Nigeria’s men’s handball team started the African Games on a high note by defeating Togo with a comfortable 38-19 victory. Their next challenge will be against Mali, who suffered a 49-16 defeat at the hands of African champions, Egypt. The Nigerian team is looking to secure another win in order to advance to the semifinals of the competition.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Sambo stars are eager to showcase their skills at the ongoing championships, where their sport is making its debut as a demonstration game. The team, comprised of two men and two women, is set to kick off their campaign on March 18th. The athletes in the squad, including Jonah Kajido (79kg), James Chegwam (58kg), Fatima Ogbonyomi (65kg), and Charity Jatau (59kg), will be facing opponents from countries such as Algeria, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic (CAR), Cameroon, Congo DR, Egypt, Guinea, Mali, Morocco, Niger Republic, Togo, and hosts, Ghana.
Speaking on his expectations for the Games, Kajido expressed his confidence in winning the gold medal. He praised the management of the Sambo Association of Nigeria (SAN), as well as the technical director and coaches, for preparing the team for the competition. Kajido believes that they are well-equipped to bring home gold medals in all their events.
Ogbonyomi also shares Kajido’s optimism and is determined to secure the top spot on the podium with a gold medal around her neck. SAN President, Loveth Howell, reiterated the readiness of the contingent and assured that they will receive the necessary support to excel in Accra. She emphasized the significance of Sambo being included in the African Games for the first time, stating that the sport is gaining popularity globally and Nigeria should embrace the opportunity to showcase its talent.
The Nigerian athletes are determined to make their mark at the African Games and are set to give their best performances in both handball and Sambo. With a strong start in handball and high hopes in Sambo, Team Nigeria is looking to make the country proud at the ongoing championships in Ghana.
