ITTF African Youth Championships: Nigeria, Egypt Punch WYC Tickets as Uganda Wins Historic Gold

Nigeria and Egypt have punched their tickets to the 2025 World Youth Championships (WYC) in Romania after stellar performances in the U-19 team events at the ITTF African Youth Championships, held at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos.

In the boys’ U-19 category, Nigeria staged a remarkable comeback in the semifinals, overturning a 0-2 deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2. The final against defending champions Tunisia proved even more dramatic.

Despite Tunisia’s ace, Wassim Essid, grinding out two intense 3-2 wins against Matthew Kuti and Abdulbasit Abdulfatai, Nigeria clung to composure. With the title on the line, Abdulfatai stormed past Mohamed Khaloufi in straight sets (3-0), clinching Nigeria’s return to continental glory after missing the 2024 edition.

Algeria and Egypt claimed bronze medals.
Egypt maintained its stranglehold on the girls’ U-19 category, cruising past Nigeria 3-0 to claim their fourth straight team title and the region’s only WYC ticket.

Led by team captain Mariam Younes, Egypt overwhelmed the hosts: Younes defeated Aishat Rabiu 3-0, Habiba Elbasoumy shut out Favour Ojo 3-0 and Nour Zaki overcame a spirited effort from Kabirat Ayoola 3-1.

‘The fans were loud, and this year was the toughest,’ said Younes. ‘But we’re thrilled to qualify. This is my final year as a U-19 athlete, and I hope to defend my singles title too.’
South Africa and Madagascar settled for bronze in the girls’ category.

Uganda made headlines by capturing its first-ever continental gold medal in the U-15 girls’ event. Down 1–2 in the final against Tunisia, the East Africans clawed their way back for a gripping 3–2 victory.

Africa Hopes Week winner Patience Anyango emerged as the game-changer, defeating Tunisia’s Mariam Brahimi 3–2 in the decisive match to hand Uganda its maiden team title.
Egypt and Algeria took home bronze medals.