Nigeria Cruise To Winning Start At Africa Men’s Handball Nations Cup, Deepening Algerian Misery

Nigeria’s Senior Men’s Handball Team, affectionately known as the Golden Arrows, have commenced their 2026 sporting calendar in impressive fashion, securing a hard-fought 25–23 victory over Algeria at the 27th Africa Men’s Handball Nations Cup in Kigali, Rwanda.

This Group A opener, contested on Wednesday at the Petit Stade, marks a significant second defeat for Algeria at the hands of Nigeria within a mere fortnight. This follows the Super Eagles’ decisive 2–0 triumph over the North African nation in the quarter-finals of the recently concluded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The Golden Arrows exhibited remarkable composure, discipline, and tactical acumen, establishing an early dominance that saw them lead 16–13 at the half-time whistle, before expertly closing out the match.

This crucial victory positions Nigeria favourably within Group A, which also features hosts Rwanda and Zambia, as the Golden Arrows intensify their pursuit of a podium finish at this prestigious continental championship.

Nigeria are set to return to action on Thursday, facing Zambia in their second group stage fixture at 1:00 pm. Their campaign in Rwanda is particularly significant as the tournament also serves as a qualifying event for the 2027 IHF World Men’s Handball Championship, scheduled to be held in Germany.

This handball triumph further solidified Nigeria’s positive momentum in 2026, building upon Eniola Bolaji’s gold medal success at the Egypt Para Badminton International and the Super Eagles’ spirited AFCON campaign, which ultimately culminated in a bronze medal