Omo Ogiefo Hand Safety Babes First Defeat in Three Years on Day 4 of Ardova Handball Premier League Phase 2

Defending champions Safety Babes suffered a stunning setback on Day 4 of the Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 2 as they fell 24–21 to an inspired Omo Ogiefo Academy side on Friday at the Rowe Park Sports Center, Yaba, Lagos.

The defeat is highly significant, marking Safety Babes’ first loss since they were beaten by Defender Babes on the final day of the 2022 season at the University of Lagos Indoor Sports Hall.

At the time, they were unbeaten since they lost to Adorable Angels in the 2020 season and the defeat to Defender Babes was a dead rubber as they had won the league before the match.

The reigning champions, who are chasing an unprecedented five consecutive league titles, were outplayed in key moments and trailed 12–10 at half time before Omo Ogiefo held firm to seal a memorable victory.

In other women’s actions, Rima Queens continued their strong push in the title race with a solid 34–29 win over Ekiti Queens, overturning a 16–17 first-half deficit to keep pressure on the top of the table.

In the Men’s category, De Defenders opened the day with a high-scoring 37–30 victory over Lagos Seasiders, pulling away after edging a tight first half 16–15.

Rima Strikers were awarded a walkover (10–0) against Adamawa Warriors, who failed to show up.

In one of the standout performances of the day, COAS Shooters dominated Benue Buffaloes 37–28, after storming to a commanding 19–10 lead at half time to stay firmly in the title conversation.

Defending champions Niger United were clinical in their 34–23 dispatching of Osun United, maintaining control from a 15–12 first-half advantage.

The day wrapped up with Safety Shooters overpowering Tojemarine Academy 31–22, following a balanced 12–12 first half before Shooters pulled away decisively in the closing stages.

Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 2

RESULTS OF DAY 4 MATCHES

MALE:

1) De Defenders–Lagos Seasiders 37–30 (16–15)

2) Adamawa Warriors–Rima Strikers 00–10 (W/O)

3) Benue Buffaloes– COAS Shooters 28–37 (10–19)

4) Niger United– Osun United 34–23 (15–12)

5) Tojemarine Academy–Safety Shooters (22–31) (12–12).

FEMALE:

1) Rima Queens–Ekiti Queens 34–29 (16–17)

2) Omo Ogiefo Academy — Safety Babes 24–21 (12–10).