ASABA 2024: Nasarawa team’s medal hopes boost with wins in hockey, boxing and golf at National Youth Games

As Team Nasarawa continues its quest for a first medal at the eighth edition of the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, its athletes have shown commendable resilience and determination to live up to expectations.

On Saturday, the men’s hockey team made a strong statement by defeating Bayelsa team 2-1 in their opening match before thrashing Borno team 3-0 in their second Pot B encounter at the Hockey Pitch, Okpanam.

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These victories put them on the verge of qualifying for the semi-finals, with a crucial match awaiting them on Sunday against Team Delta. A victory would ensure their passage to the next round.

The women’s hockey team, on the other hand, faced a tougher challenge as they suffered a 0-2 loss to the Edo team in their opening match. Despite the setback, the girls remain motivated to bounce back in their upcoming matches.

Boxing brought more joy to the Team Nasarawa camp as Auta Yusuf Abdullahi dominated his opponent from Enugu State in the men’s 42kg category, winning by technical knockout in the third round.

His coach Nnamdi Osuji was pleased with the victory and expressed hope for more success as Abdullahi awaits his quarter-final opponent.

Golf added to the team’s promising day as Godwin Friday secured a place in the semi-final after defeating competitors from Delta State and FCT Abuja in match play matches. On Sunday, he will face a yet-to-be-announced opponent from Kano State.

Another golfer from the Nasarawa team, Sidi Ibrahim, had a solid performance in the eclectic event, scoring 82. His coach, Olafemi Obamuwe, believes that with fewer strokes on Sunday, Ibrahim could also be in contention for medals.

Team Nasarawa, which is competing in 14 sports at the Games, remains hopeful of making a breakthrough as the competition progresses.

“These performances show that our athletes are prepared to fight hard and make the state proud,” said Coach Sule.

This exclusive news is powered by the support of FC Kiraa, Deo Sport Sphere and GIGM

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