Nigeria U-18 Handball Team Thrash Madagascar to Reach Quarter-Finals

Nigeria’s Under-18 men’s handball team booked their place in the quarter-finals of the Africa Men’s Youth Handball Championship after a dominant 45-27 victory over Madagascar in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on Friday.

The Nigerian youngsters had to work hard in the opening half as Madagascar matched them for long periods.

Nigeria led by just three goals at the interval, 16-13, leaving the encounter finely poised heading into the second half.

The Nigerians, however, returned from the break with greater intensity and quickly took control of the contest.

Their attacking play improved significantly as they increased the tempo, while their defence also made it increasingly difficult for Madagascar to stay in touch.

Nigeria eventually pulled clear to secure a commanding 45-27 victory and confirm their place in the last eight of the championship.

Akibu Muhammed was named Man of the Match after producing an outstanding individual performance for Nigeria.

The victory keeps Nigeria’s impressive campaign in Abidjan on track as the young team now turns its attention to the quarter-finals.