Nigeria U-18 handball head coach Ayo Joshua has revealed the extent of the rebuilding process within his team, while expressing confidence ahead of the 2026 IHF Trophy Africa Zone 3 Tournament in Lomé, Togo.
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With many of the previous squad members graduating to the U-20 level, Joshua explained that assembling a new team has been a significant challenge.
“It hasn’t been easy,” he admitted, highlighting the scale of the transition.
The departure of experienced players meant that the coaching crew had to start almost from scratch, identifying and integrating new talents into the squad.
For Joshua, this process required patience, careful selection, and intensive preparation to ensure the team remains competitive despite the changes.
“We had to rebuild,” he said, emphasizing that the current squad is the result of deliberate effort and planning.
Despite the challenges, the coach remains optimistic.
He revealed that the team has worked hard in camp, focusing on building chemistry, improving tactical understanding, and developing a strong team identity.
“We are ready,” he insisted, expressing confidence in the players’ ability to rise to the occasion.
The upcoming tournament presents both a test and an opportunity.
For a newly assembled team, it is a chance to prove itself against other West African nations and gain valuable experience at the international level.
Joshua believes that while the team may still be developing, its determination and preparation will be key strengths.
For Nigerian handball, the rebuild represents a necessary step in maintaining a pipeline of talent across different age groups.
As older players move up, younger ones must be ready to step in, ensuring continuity and growth within the sport.
As the tournament approaches, expectations will be balanced with realism.
But one thing is clear.
This is a new team, a new beginning, and a chance to build something for the future.
