Gateway Games 2024: Ogun female handball team reaches final after defeating Kogi

The Ogun State female handball team booked their spot in the final of the 2025 National Sports Festival,Gateway Game after defeating Kogi State in the semi-final clash held at the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta.

Playing in their traditional yellow jerseys, Team Ogun, who had previously beaten the Confluence Girls in the group stage, repeated their dominance with a 24-19 victory.

Speaking after the game, head coach Shola Sekoni expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance.
“I feel great; we’re getting there gradually. The players gave me about 75 percent today, and I’m confident the remaining 25 percent will come in the final,” Sekoni said.

Sekoni also commended the support of Governor Dapo Abiodun, stating that his commitment and fulfilment of promises had greatly motivated the players.

The governor paid all outstanding arrears and made further promises. The girls are looking forward to that, and it’s pushing them to give their best,” he added.

To get here, we faced Kogi, Plateau, and Delta before meeting Kogi again in the semifinals. I expect nothing less than gold in the final.”

One of Team Ogun’s standout players, Abdulrasaq Idowu, expressed confidence that Ogun would emerge as champions.

She also called for more support for the sport nationwide.

“If governments at all levels can organise more handball competitions at schools, states, and national levels, the game will grow in popularity,” she said.

More national and international exposure will inspire youths to take up the sport.”

The Ogun handball team now looks ahead to the final as they aim to crown their impressive campaign with gold on home soil.