Nigeria’s U-18 Women’s Handball team slipped to a 23–20 defeat against Angola in their third group match at the ongoing Africa Women’s Youth Handball Championship in Oran, Algeria, leaving their hopes of reaching the knockout stage hanging by a thread.
The young Nigerians, eager to bounce back after losing to Tunisia and drawing with Benin Republic, trailed 11–8 at halftime.
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Angola’s solid defensive organization and sharp finishing proved difficult to overcome.
In the second half, Coach John Uzor’s side showed renewed determination, fighting back with greater confidence and resilience.
They matched Angola goal for goal in the closing stages but were undone by costly turnovers that allowed the Southern Africans to hold firm and seal the win.
The result puts Nigeria in a difficult position as they battle to qualify from their group.
Earlier Setback Against Tunisia
Nigeria’s campaign began on a disappointing note with a heavy 50–25 defeat to Tunisia in their opening fixture on Tuesday.
Despite being awarded three points from a walkover against Madagascar on Sunday, the team struggled to find rhythm when they finally took to the court.
Tunisia dominated from start to finish, racing into a 25–8 halftime lead that effectively ended the contest.
Nigeria’s fragile defense and misfiring attack compounded their struggles, with several turnovers, missed chances, and shots hitting the bar adding to their frustrations.
Despite the setback, the Nigerian girls looked to regroup in their next match against Benin Republic.
That clash was seen as a chance to restore confidence and reignite their campaign, but after the draw and now a defeat to Angola, their path to the knockout rounds has become increasingly uncertain.
