Nigeria’s Under-18 Women’s Handball team, led by Coach Adewunmi Agboola Shittu, has finalized its roster for the 10th IHF Women’s Under-18 Handball Championship in China.
The team departed from Muritala International Airport, Lagos, on Monday aboard Egypt Air and is expected to arrive in Chuzhou, China, on Tuesday for the prestigious competition.
Coach Shittu has put together a talented squad, featuring Captain Esther Mathew and the dynamic Babatunde twins, who have both earned their spots on the team.
The Samuel sisters also made the final cut, although only one of the Muhammad sisters was selected. The roster also includes standout players such as left-back Amarachi Oparaugo and pivot Damilola Akinlade, both of whom are expected to play key roles in Nigeria’s campaign.
The Nigerian team is set to begin their World Championship journey against Croatia on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Nigeria time. Following that, they will face Montenegro on Thursday at 2 p.m., and will conclude the group stage with a highly anticipated match against continental rivals Angola on Saturday at 10 a.m.
The IHF Women’s Under-18 Handball Championship represents a significant opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its young talent on the global stage.
The team has been meticulously prepared under the guidance of Coach Shittu, who has emphasized teamwork, discipline, and strategic play.
Final Team List for IHF Women’s Under-18 World Championship in China:
Goalkeepers:
1. Samuel Precious (Sokoto Rima)
2. Babatunde Kehinde (ASPAC HBC)
Right Wing:
3. Onyekwere Lucy (Sokoto Rima)
4. Igbinedion Blessing (Delta Force)
Right Back:
5. Mathew Esther (Addija HBC)
6. Ogbusimba Chidera (Sokoto Rima)
Left Back:
7. Samuel Prudence (Sokoto Rima)
8. Babatunde Taiwo (Seasiders Babe)
9. Oparaugo Amarachi (Imo Grasshoppers)
Left Wing:
10. Muhammad Amina (Sokoto Rima)
11. Okolo Joan (Delta Force)
Center Back:
12. Bello Rahima (Sokoto Rima)
13. Izuoba Ijeoma (Delta Force)
Pivot:
14. Akinlade Damilola (Rivers Queens)
As the team gears up for their opening match against Croatia, hopes are high for a strong performance that will propel them further in the tournament.
Nigeria’s participation in this championship underscores the country’s growing presence in international handball, with these young athletes poised to make their mark on the world stage.
