By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria’s U18 men’s and women’s hockey teams have both clinched bronze medals at the inaugural U18 Hockey5s Youth Africa Cup in Nairobi, Kenya.
The women’s team defeated Ghana 4–3 in the bronze-medal match, while the men produced a dominant display, thrashing Uganda 15–2 to secure their place on the podium.
Nigeria’s women enjoyed an impressive run in the tournament, defeating South Africa, Uganda and Ghana during the group stage before overcoming Ghana again in the third-place playoff.
The men also delivered a strong campaign, drawing 7–7 with South Africa and recording victories over Ghana and Uganda before ending the competition with another emphatic win over Uganda.
Held from August 6 to 8, the tournament also served as Africa’s qualification event for the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup. The top two teams in both the men’s and women’s categories earned qualification tickets, leaving Nigeria just short of a place at the global tournament.
Despite missing out on World Cup qualification, the double-bronze finish represents a significant achievement for Nigeria’s emerging hockey talents and provides valuable international experience ahead of future competitions.
The Nigeria Sports Commission congratulated the players, coaches and officials for their impressive performances in Nairobi.
