Nigeria, Benin Battle to 31-31 Stalemate at Africa Women’s Youth Handball Championship

Nigeria’s U-18 women’s handball team were held to a pulsating 31-31 draw by a spirited Benin Republic side on Wednesday in their second group game at the Africa Women’s Youth Handball Championship in Oran, Algeria.

The Coach John Uzor led team started brightly better than they did against Tunisia and went into halftime with a 17-15 lead, showing more sharpness in attack and better ball circulation compared to their opening defeat against Tunisia.

However, the Beninoise mounted a strong comeback in the second half, capitalizing on Nigeria’s defensive lapses and forcing turnovers that allowed them to stay within touching distance.

Their persistence paid off as they clawed back to level the score, denying Nigeria what could have been their second victory of the tournament.

Despite the disappointment of surrendering a two-goal halftime advantage, the draw represents a slightly better performance from the Nigerian, who had struggled with confidence in their opening match.

Nigeria will now look to build on this fighting display as they continue their campaign in Oran, with their next fixture seen as crucial in determining their progression in the competition.