Nigeria’s Golden Arrows open African handball campaign against Algeria

Nigeria’s senior men’s handball team, the Golden Arrows, are set to begin their campaign at the African Men’s Handball Nations Championship with a high-stakes opening match against Algeria today at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda. The Nigerian delegation departed Lagos early Tuesday via the Murtala Muhammed International Airport and arrived in Kigali later in […]

Nigeria’s senior men’s handball team, the Golden Arrows, are set to begin their campaign at the African Men’s Handball Nations Championship with a high-stakes opening match against Algeria today at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda.

The Nigerian delegation departed Lagos early Tuesday via the Murtala Muhammed International Airport and arrived in Kigali later in the day to conclude preparations for the continental tournament, which runs from January 21 to 31.

The team is led by the President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Mr Jibril Saidu Ojih, alongside other federation officials, underlining Nigeria’s determination to make a strong impact at the championship.

Under the guidance of head coach Rafiu Salami, the Golden Arrows have been scheduled for intensive training sessions ahead of their 1:00 pm opener against Algeria, a fixture expected to provide an early test against one of Africa’s traditional handball powers.

Coach Salami had unveiled a final 16-man squad following weeks of intensive camping and training in Abuja, where players underwent tactical, physical and technical drills. The squad blends home-based players with foreign professionals, striking a balance between experience and youthful energy.

In goal, Nigeria will rely on Olatunde Adams (Qatar), Michael Ogbaji (Cotonou) and Okwor Obinna (COAS). The backcourt features Yusuf Faruk, based in France, and Morocco-based Rotibi Gbenga, while Hakeem Salami anchors the centre-back position. Daniel Bello of Turkey and Sessugh Stephen provide options at pivot, with Azeez Suleiman (France) and Cole Gbenga (Morocco) offering pace on the wings.