AFCON Handball: Nigeria defeat hosts Rwanda 30-20 to top Group A

By Editor

Nigeria’s Senior Men Handball Team, the Golden Arrows, delivered a dominant display to defeat host nation Rwanda 30-20, finishing as Group A winners at the ongoing Africa Men’s Handball Nations Cup in Kigali.

The encounter at the BK Arena saw Nigeria take early control, going into halftime with a 14–10 advantage after a disciplined and well-structured first half.

The Golden Arrows were even more convincing after the break, tightening their defence and executing swift counterattacks to pull clear of the hosts and seal a comprehensive victory.

Hakeem Salami was the standout attacker for Nigeria, firing in eight goals to lead the scoring and constantly trouble the Rwandan defence. He was well supported by Yusuf Faruk, who added five goals, while IyorTyer Sessugh and Dikko Ibrahim contributed three goals each.

Mohammed Mustapha and Rotibi Victor also chipped in with two goals apiece, highlighting Nigeria’s balanced and effective attacking spread.

At the heart of Nigeria’s success was goalkeeper Michael Solomon, whose outstanding performance between the posts proved decisive. Solomon made several crucial saves at key moments, frustrating the Rwandan attack led by Yves Kayijamahe, who was the most vibrant player for the host with 11 goals.

The performance of Michael Solomon earned him the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for the match for the second time in three matches in the competition so far

The emphatic victory confirms Nigeria’s status as Group A winners, and they will face Group B runners-up Angola in the quarter finals of the competition on Sunday.

Photo: African Handball Nations Cup 2026 in Kigali, Rwanda.