Nigeria U-20 Handball Team Beat Algeria in Championship Opener

Nigeria’s U-20 Men’s Handball team opened their campaign at the 33rd African Men’s Junior Nations Championship on a winning note, defeating Algeria 23-18 in their opening Group B match in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on Saturday.

The Nigerian side held their nerve in a tightly contested first half, taking a slim 10-9 lead into the break.

They returned stronger in the second half, producing a solid defensive display and scoring 13 goals to Algeria’s nine to complete a well-deserved five-goal victory.

Goalkeeper Samuel Obabori Aduralare was outstanding between the posts, making crucial saves that helped Nigeria maintain their advantage, particularly during key moments of the encounter.

His impressive performance earned him the Player of the Match award.

The victory gives Nigeria two valuable points in Group B, where they are drawn alongside Algeria, Angola and Madagascar.

The Nigerian youngsters will now look to build on the impressive opening-day performance as they continue their pursuit of honours at the championship.