John Uzor, head coach of Nigeria’s U-18 women’s handball team, is optimistic about his squad’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Youth World Handball Championship, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
As the team prepares for the upcoming 2025 African Women’s Youth Handball Championship set to take place later this month in Oran, Algeria, their goal is to replicate—or exceed—their impressive third-place finish at the 2023 tournament in Tunisia. That milestone performance earned Nigeria their first-ever ticket to the World Championship.
In an interview with PUNCH Sports Extra, Uzor shared his confidence: “Every team coming to compete has prepared thoroughly, and we’re counting on a bit of good fortune as well. Since five teams will qualify, I’m certain we’ll secure our spot. Even if we don’t make it to the podium, reaching the World Cup remains our primary focus. Of course, we are determined to finish among the top teams, but what matters most is qualifying for the World Cup.”
He went on to say, “Our previous team took part in this tournament two years ago and finished third, so expectations are high for us to at least match or exceed that result. With more countries joining the competition this time, we are working hard to introduce new strategies and improvements to help the team perform even better.”
Nigeria will compete in Group A against tough opponents, including Angola, Tunisia, Kenya, Benin Republic, and Madagascar at the championship.
The tournament is scheduled from September 14 to 21 in Oran, Algeria. Beyond continental bragging rights, it will also determine which teams qualify for the 2026 Women’s Youth World Handball Championship and the IHF Women’s Intercontinental Phase.
At the 2023 edition in Monastir, Tunisia, Nigeria clinched the bronze medal by defeating Angola—three-time African champions—28-24 in a thrilling third-place match. That victory earned them their historic debut at the World Championship stage.
