Nigeria’s senior men’s handball team, known as the Golden Arrows, have secured an early place in the quarter-finals of the 27th Africa Men’s Handball Nations Cup following back-to-back victories in Kigali, Rwanda.
Nigeria opened their Group A campaign with a narrow 25–23 win over Algeria, producing a disciplined performance against one of the competition’s traditional heavyweights. The match, played at the Petit Stade, was decided by Nigeria’s compact defence and improved efficiency in attack during the closing stages.
Key contributions came from Faruk Yusuf, who dictated play from the backcourt, while John Shagari was effective on the left wing. Goalkeeper Michael Agbaji delivered a series of crucial saves and was named Man of the Match.
The Golden Arrows followed that result with a commanding 36–18 victory over Zambia, a dominant display that confirmed qualification for the last eight with a game to spare.
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With two wins from two matches, Nigeria now sit top of Group A, which also includes hosts Rwanda. They will face the hosts in their final group fixture, with qualification already assured.
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The Africa Men’s Handball Nations Cup also serves as a qualification pathway for the 2027 IHF World Men’s Handball Championship, adding further significance to Nigeria’s strong start to the tournament.
