Nigeria’s Senior Women’s Handball team continued their winning start at the inaugural IHF Women’s Nations Trophy Africa Zone III with a 33-25 victory over hosts Burkina Faso in Ouagadougou on Friday.
The Nigerian side, coached by Michael Taangahar, overcame a closely fought first half before pulling away after the interval to secure an eight-goal victory at the Palais des Sports de Ouaga 2000.
Nigeria led 14-13 at half-time, with both teams producing a competitive opening 30 minutes. The visitors returned from the break with greater intensity, tightening their defence and becoming more effective in attack as they gradually extended their advantage.
Sadiya Musa was Nigeria’s leading scorer with six goals, while Wuraola Nuhu, Kirman Haruna, Rachael Ovetuo, Daina Saaloo and Grace Ahaemefula added four goals each.
Balikisu Muhammed also scored four goals and was named the Most Valuable Player of the match for her contribution to Nigeria’s victory.
The result gives Nigeria two wins from two matches in Group A, following their emphatic 39-18 victory over Ghana in Thursday’s opening fixture.
The consecutive victories put Nigeria in a strong position in the three-team group, with the top two sides advancing to the semi-finals.
Nigeria will now look to maintain their momentum as they pursue the Zone III title and a place at the 2026 Confederation of African Handball (CAHB) African Women’s Handball Championship.
The tournament winners will secure the zone’s qualification ticket for the continental championship.