The Nigerian Under-18 Women’s Handball team, under the leadership of Coach Adewunmi Agboola Shittu, has finalized its squad for the 10th International Handball Federation (IHF) Women’s Under-18 Handball Championship in China.
The team departed from Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Monday, traveling via Egypt Air, and is scheduled to arrive in Chuzhou, China, on Tuesday ahead of the prestigious competition.
Coach Shittu has carefully selected a talented roster, featuring Captain Esther Mathew and the versatile Babatunde twins, who have both proven their mettle. The Samuel sisters also secured their spots on the team, although only one of the Muhammad sisters made the final selection. Key players like left-back Amarachi Oparaugo and pivot Damilola Akinlade are also expected to play crucial roles in Nigeria’s campaign.
The Nigerian team is poised to begin its World Championship journey against Croatia on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Nigerian time. Their next challenge comes on Thursday when they face Montenegro at 2 p.m., followed by a highly anticipated match against their continental rivals, Angola, on Saturday at 10 a.m.
The IHF Women’s Under-18 Handball Championship provides Nigeria with a significant opportunity to showcase its burgeoning talent on the global stage. The team has been rigorously prepared under the guidance of Coach Shittu, who has emphasized the importance of teamwork, discipline, and strategic gameplay.
Final Team Roster for IHF Women’s Under-18 World Championship in China:
Goalkeepers:
- Samuel Precious (Sokoto Rima)
- Babatunde Kehinde (ASPAC HBC)
Right Wing:
- Onyekwere Lucy (Sokoto Rima)
- Igbinedion Blessing (Delta Force)
Right Back:
- Mathew Esther (Addija HBC)
- Ogbusimba Chidera (Sokoto Rima)
Left Back:
- Samuel Prudence (Sokoto Rima)
- Babatunde Taiwo (Seasiders Babe)
- Oparaugo Amarachi (Imo Grasshoppers)
Left Wing:
- Muhammad Amina (Sokoto Rima)
- Okolo Joan (Delta Force)
Center Back:
- Bello Rahima (Sokoto Rima)
- Izuoba Ijeoma (Delta Force)
Pivot:
- Akinlade Damilola (Rivers Queens)
As the team gears up for their opening match against Croatia, expectations are high for a strong performance that could propel them further in the tournament. Nigeria’s participation in this championship highlights the country’s increasing prominence in international handball, with these young athletes ready to make a significant impact on the world stage.
