Nigeria’s Under-23 handball team has achieved a historic milestone by defeating Moldova 25-22 to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the 5th IHF Emerging Nations Championship in Varna, Bulgaria. This victory marks the first time an African team has reached the semi-finals of the tournament.
The match, played on Thursday, saw Faruk Yusuf deliver a standout performance, scoring six goals and providing four assists in the first half alone. His contributions directly influenced 10 of Nigeria’s 14 goals, helping the team overcome an early deficit and take control of the game.
Under the guidance of Coach Solomon Yola, the Nigerian squad entered the match knowing a win was essential to advance, especially after Azerbaijan’s elimination from contention. Despite Moldova’s strong start, Nigeria’s resilience and tactical discipline proved decisive.
A Hard-Fought Victory
Moldova initially dominated the early stages of the first half, but Yusuf’s brilliance turned the tide in Nigeria’s favor. Although Moldova kept the game close, they were unable to regain momentum, allowing Nigeria to secure a 25-22 victory.
Historic Achievement
This win not only propels Nigeria into the semi-finals but also cements their place in history as the first African team to achieve this feat at the IHF Emerging Nations Championship. The team’s performance has been a source of pride for the nation and a testament to the growing strength of handball in Africa.
Looking Ahead
As Nigeria prepares for the semi-finals, the team’s focus will be on maintaining their momentum and continuing to make history. Their remarkable journey in the tournament has already inspired a new generation of handball players across the continent.
