Tojemarine cruise past De Defenders as Day Five produces thrillers

Editor

Hosts Tojemarine Handball Club continued their impressive run at the 2026 Tojemarine Invitational Handball Championship with a commanding 21-12 victory on Monday over De Defenders in the men’s category. It was Day Five of the competition at the Sports Hall of the National Institute for Sports, Lagos.

Tojemarine stamped their authority on the contest from the opening whistle, taking an 11-6 lead into halftime before completing a dominant nine-goal victory to maintain their unbeaten record in Group A. It also strengthens their credentials as one of the favourites for the title.

The men’s Group B encounter saw ASPAC of the Benin Republic secure a convincing 31-22 victory over Kalibi of Ghana. ASPAC led 15-12 at halftime before pulling away in the second period to claim another important victory in their campaign.

In the women’s category, tournament heavyweights SOOF and Flowers of the Benin Republic played out an entertaining 21-21 draw in what was arguably the standout fixture of the day.

Flowers held a narrow 11-10 advantage at halftime, but SOOF fought back in the second half to ensure both sides shared the spoils.

ASPAC of the Benin Republic also recorded an impressive 30-21 victory over Kalibi after establishing a comfortable 17-10 lead at the break.

With the conclusion of the preliminary round fixtures, attention now shifts to the knockout stage of the championship.

Teams are enjoying a rest day on Tuesday, July 21, before the competition resumes on Wednesday, July 22, with the semifinal and placement matches.

DAY 5: MONDAY 20/07/26.

Women

1) SOOF–FLOWERS 21–21 (10–11).

2) ASPAC–KALIBI 30–21 (17–10).

Men

1) KALIBI–ASPAC 22–31 (12–15).

2) TOJEMARINE–De DEFENDERS 21–12 (11–06)