Nigeria’s U21 men handball team fell 48: 19 to 2017 U19 world champions France in their opening group B fixture of the 2019 World Junior Handball Championship in Spain on Tuesday.
Nigeria’s U21 men struggled against the former world champions and Euro silver medalists as France pressured early into the game while scoring four goals in the first five minutes. At half time, France led by 17 goals as the scoreline reflected a 26: 9 margin.
France’s good work constantly frustrated Nigeria who struggled all through the game in efforts to get goals across. They did show spirit but were no match for the Europeans.
Nigeria team coach Shittu Adewunmi commended his teams’ spirit in a disappointing loss.
“We knew that we were facing one of the great candidates for the title and the truth is that in the counterattack, they managed to do us a lot of damage. Against Egypt, it will be a challenge for us, we will face a rival and we want to win.”
The action continues today for Nigeria as they face off against fellow Africans Egypt later today.
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