Nigeria's Young Guns disgrace Ghana to defend Africa Zone 3 title, U20s spank Benin

A new generation of Nigerian handball talents emerged victorious at the recent IHF Trophy Africa Zone 3 tournament held in Accra, Ghana.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that both the U18s and their seniors, the U20s, made Nigeria proud with a title and podium finish respectively.

The tournament showcased an array of rising stars from across West Africa, but it was Nigeria's U18 side who stole the show. 

Led masterfully by head coach Emeka Nnamani, the young Nigerian team produced a dominant first half display to establish a 15-9 lead over regional rivals Ghana.

Sensing victory, the Ghanaian outfit fought gallantly after the break to try and overturn the deficit. However, Nigeria held firm as their athleticism, aggression and clinical finishing secured a 33-25 victory.

Jubilant scenes followed as the players revelled in successfully defending their Zone 3 title while earning qualification to the Continental Phase of the IHF Trophy.

"I could not be prouder of this squad," said a delighted Nnamani. "They have so much potential and have proven they can compete against the very best teams on the continent."

The senior U20 Nigerian side also impressed by defeating Benin 42-28 to claim bronze medals in Lagos. 

Meanwhile, Ghana's U20 team made history by winning gold - defeating Ivory Coast in the final to reach the Continental Phase for the first time.

With both Nigeria and Ghana progressing, handball's profile continues to rapidly rise amongst Anglophone West African nations. 

The eyes of the continent will be on the traditional rivals when they clash with the top handballing talent from across Africa in the months ahead.