Team Nigeria wins IHF Women’s Trophy Africa Zone Phase 3 U-18 category

Posted : 25 April 2025

Nigeria’s U-18 Women’s Handball team emerged as champions of the IHF Women’s Trophy Africa Zone 3 Phase in the Youth Category following a 37-30 victory over hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final held in Abidjan.

The team, coached by John Uzor, had shown great promise throughout the tournament and capped off their campaign with a commanding display that combined tactical discipline, physical intensity, and attacking flair.

The match lived up to its billing as a clash between two of the competition’s standout sides, with both teams entering the final unbeaten. However, Nigeria wasted no time asserting themselves, racing into an early lead through fast-paced attacking play and aggressive defense. Even when Côte d’Ivoire, backed by a passionate home crowd, responded with energy of their own, Nigeria, led by Captain Omole Joy, defended well to keep the Ivorians at bay.

Nigeria tightened their defense and capitalized on fast breaks to really hurt and outscore their hosts, with Balikisu Amina setting the pace. Despite the hosts’ attempts to find their way back into the contest, Nigeria maintained control and managed the game efficiently in the final minutes to seal a seven-goal victory.

Coach John Uzor praised his players’ discipline and unity, saying, “The victory reflects the hard work these girls have put in. They played as a team, supported one another, and showed the spirit of champions.”

He also praised the Samuel Ocheho-led Handball Federation of Nigeria board for ensuring that the team received the desired support.

With the win, Nigeria’s U-18 team not only claimed the Zone 3 title but also secured qualification for the next phase of the IHF Women’s Trophy, where they will represent the Zone in the continental phase at a venue yet to be announced.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s U-20 Women’s Handball team finished on the podium with a bronze medal after earning a 31-19 victory over Benin Republic in the Junior category third-place match.

The team, coached by Shittu Adewunmi Agboola, fell short of their usual standards when they lost 28-25 to Burkina Faso in the semi-final. They then beat Benin Republic in a precise manner to secure the conciliatory bronze medal and end their IHF Women’s Trophy campaign.

Burkina Faso will represent the Zone in the IHF Women’s Trophy Africa Continental Phase in the Junior category following their 31-30 victory over Ivory Coast.

Team Nigeria wins IHF Women’s Trophy Africa Zone Phase 3 U-18 category

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