Nigeria Taekwondo Returns to World Medal Table After Two Decades
After a 20-year absence from the world medal table, Nigeria’s Taekwondo team has made a remarkable comeback as Elizabeth Anyanacho delivered a resilient performance at the ongoing World Taekwondo Championships in Wuxi, China.
Anyanacho, the reigning African Champion competing in the -67kg category, showcased exceptional skill and determination to defeat Uzbekistan’s Sobibronova O. in two thrilling rounds, 8–6 and 10–9, to advance to the semi-finals; a result that guarantees Nigeria at least a bronze medal.
Reacting to the historic achievement, President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, Grand Master Tayo Popoola, hailed Anyanacho’s success as a product of hard work and perseverance.
“I have been following the championship closely and I’m overjoyed with Elizabeth’s progress. She has shown great dedication over the years, and this result proves that Nigeria is returning to the global Taekwondo stage,” Popoola said.
The Federation President expressed strong belief that Anyanacho has what it takes to go all the way and make history.
“She has two more fights to become the world champion in the women’s -67kg category. Winning them will make her the first Nigerian to ever claim gold at the World Championships. We are solidly behind her as a Federation and as a nation,” Popoola added.
Elizabeth Anyanacho will step onto the mat later today for her semi-final bout as she continues her quest to make history for Nigeria at the World Taekwondo Championships in Wuxi, China.
