Nigeria triumph over Angola to clinch podium finish at Women’s Youth Handball Championship

Nigeria secured a podium finish at the Africa Women’s Youth Handball Championship in Monastir, Tunisia, clinching third place with a resilient 28-24 victory over Angola in a Saturday showdown. 

Following a setback in the semifinal against Egypt, the national under-18 women’s handball team knew they had to pour their hearts into the match to claim the third spot. 

The girls burst out of the gates with unwavering determination, dominating the first half with a commanding 12-7 lead. 

Angola’s team, considered one of the top contenders in the competition, launched a spirited comeback in the second half. 

However, coach Shittu Adewunmi Agboola’s well-coached team held their ground and ultimately triumphed to secure the coveted bronze medal, achieving a significant upset against a formidable handball team. 

As a result of this victory, Nigeria has earned a spot in the IHF Women’s Youth Handball Championship slated to take place in China next year.

Additionally, they will be participating in the Intercontinental Phase after victories in both the zonal and continental phases in Ghana and Ivory Coast respectively.

The team is set to return to Nigeria on Monday for a warm reception. 

Meanwhile, the Championship final saw defending champions Egypt retain their crown after a comfortable win against surprise finalists, Guinea.

Egypt defeated their Guineans  29-16 to reaffirm their position as the queens of handball in Africa.