Team Nigeria’s table tennis squad is brimming with optimism following the draws for the singles event at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
The eight-man squad, having experienced earlier exits in the mixed and doubles events, is now focused on making a strong impact in the singles matches, set to begin on Sunday, September 1.
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In the Men’s Class 4, Isau Ogunkunle, the African champion, faces a challenging match against world No. 3, Turkey’s Ali Ozturk. Debutant Bolawa Akingbemisilu is paired with Brazil’s Lucas Arabian in Class 5, while Kayode Alabi will compete against Romania’s Bobi Simon in Class 6. Abiola Adesope is set to take on France’s Lucas Didier in Class 9, with Olufemi Alabi facing a tough opponent in China’s Hao Lian in Class 10.
Victor Farinloye will start his campaign in the Round of 32 against Croatia’s Borna Zohil in Class 8, unlike his teammates who begin from the Round of 16.
In the Women’s Singles, Commonwealth Games medallists Christian Alabi and Faith Obazuaye will face formidable opponents from Chile and Chinese Taipei, respectively. Alabi, making her Paralympic debut, will challenge Chile’s Tamara Leonelli, while Obazuaye takes on Chinese Taipei’s Shiau-wen Tian.
Despite the tough draws, the Nigerian camp remains hopeful. Ogunkunle, a key figure in the squad, expressed confidence in his teammates, stating, “We know the challenges ahead, but we are determined to make ourselves and our country proud. It won’t be easy, but we are ready to excel here in Paris.”
As the singles matches approach, all eyes will be on the Nigerian squad as they aim to overcome the odds and make a significant impact at the Paralympic Games.
