The Nigerian team have won gold and silver in the women’s single to emerge the overall winner at the maiden 2019 ITTF West Africa Challenge, which ended in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire on November 3, 2019.
Fatimo Bello came from behind to beat compatriot – Tosin Esther Oribamise 4-2 in the final of the women’s single.
Fatimo Bello set a record at the tournament as the only player that did not drop a game on her way to the final.
The final game between Bello and Oribamise gave the spectators something to cheer with both players dazzling with their strokes and looping to the admiration of the fan inside the Multipurpose Hall in Trenchville, Abidjan.
An elated Bello said winning the title was not without its challenges, as she had to come from 2-0 down to win 4-2.
According to Fatimo Bello:
“It was not easy at all because I had to come from behind to win the encounter.
I am very happy and grateful to the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) for the opportunity to represent my country.
I must also acknowledge the support from the Abidjan fans despite being my first time in this lovely country and I look forward to returning next time.”
Cote d’Ivoire’s Nadia Kemanan settled for bronze in the women while Ghana’s Derek Abrefa finished third in the men’s event.
In the men’s final, it was a battle between home boy – Oba Oba Kizito and Benin Republic’s Monday Olabiyi to determine the champion of the region.
