Nigeria and Egypt emerged victorious in the team events at the 2024 ITTF Africa Championships, held in Addis Ababa on Monday, October 14.
In the men’s event, with Egypt absent, Nigeria faced Algeria in a thrilling final. Omotayo battled Sami Kherouf in a suspenseful match, but Kherouf secured a 3-2 victory, giving Algeria a 1-0 lead. Milhane Jellouli then faced Quadri Aruna, who leveled the score for Nigeria with a 3-1 win. Matthew Kuti showcased his dominance by defeating Maheidine Bella 3-0, putting Nigeria ahead 2-1. In the decisive match, Aruna overcame Kherouf, sealing Nigeria’s 3-1 triumph and crowning them the new African champions.
In the women’s event, Egypt continued their dominance. The trio of Hana Goda, Yousra Helmy, and Mariam Alhodaby defeated Nigeria’s Ajoke Ojomu, Fatimo Bello, and Hope Udoaka.
Goda started strong with a 3-0 win over Ojomu. Bello initially led 2-0 against Helmy, but Helmy made a remarkable comeback to win 3-2. Alhodaby completed the sweep with a commanding 3-0 victory over Udoaka, securing Egypt’s 3-0 win.
