Nigeria has advanced to the final of the IHF Trophy Africa men’s continental phase after a determined 44-33 victory over Cameroon in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This hard-fought match saw the defending champions, coached by Emeka Nnamani, face a Cameroonian team that adopted a defensively focused approach. From the outset, Nigeria demonstrated their offensive prowess, effectively utilizing wing play and quick transitions to establish an early lead in the first half, which concluded at 22-15 in their favor.
In the second half, the Nigerian team maintained their momentum, with left-back Christian Bolaji emerging as a key player by scoring crucial goals from both the 9-metre line and the wings. His decisive play was instrumental in keeping Cameroon at bay and ultimately securing the victory for Nigeria. Foloki, another standout athlete, sustained an injury during a late-game collision with the Cameroon goalkeeper but was still recognized as the Most Valuable Player of the match for his exceptional performance.
Coach Nnamani expressed his pride in the team’s performance, commending their effort and resilience in overcoming their opponents. He emphasized the significance of their win in the semi-final and the hard work that the players put in to reach this stage of the tournament. Additionally, he highlighted their determination to perform at their best in the upcoming final, where they aim to further solidify their position and qualify for the intercontinental phase of the competition.
Now that they have secured a spot in the final, Nigeria will face Guinea in what is expected to be a competitive match. Scheduled for Wednesday at 3 p.m. Nigeria time, the final presents an opportunity for Nigeria not only to defend their title but also to showcase their growth as a team on a continental stage. The stakes are high, and the players are keen to deliver another impressive performance.
The journey to the final has been characterized by strategic gameplay and teamwork, with each match contributing to the players’ development and cohesion as a unit. Nnamani’s leadership and tactical acumen have played a pivotal role in guiding the team through the tournament, and his optimism about their chances in the final speaks to the confidence building within the squad.
As Nigeria prepares for the decisive match against Guinea, the players and coaching staff remain focused on their goal of claiming the championship and securing their place in the intercontinental competition. Their dedication and spirit will be critical as they strive to achieve success and bring home another trophy for Nigeria, continuing the nation’s rich tradition in handball and on the international sports stage.
