Defence
By Vivian Ahanmisi
Lagos, Dec. 18, 2025 (NAN) Reigning national champion Muiz Adegoke faces a stern test defending his crown against former champion Matthew Kuti and defending champion Abdulbasit Abdulfatai.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the third Daniel Ford Elite Youth Table Tennis Tournament begins Friday, Dec. 19, at Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.
Adegoke has enjoyed blistering form, winning the Governor Diri Top 16 Cup in Bayelsa and a Lagos club title featuring several of Nigeria’s top players.
“I feel confident with my recent results, but this tournament is different,” Adegoke said. “I want to finally win the Daniel Ford title.”
His history at the event has been mixed, reaching the top four in 2023 but exiting at the group stage last year.
Earlier this year, a dip in form cost Adegoke his national team place, making the tournament crucial to his ambitions.
“This is my opportunity to prove myself again. I know what is at stake,” he said.
Standing in his way are national teammates Kuti and Abdulfatai, both determined to reassert themselves.
Kuti, once tipped as Nigerian table tennis’ next star, has struggled recently, losing 4-0 to Adegoke in Bayelsa and again in Lagos.
“I have had setbacks, but Lagos always brings out the best in me. I want my title back,” Kuti said.
Abdulfatai, a left-hander from Kwara, has endured early exits recently and needs strong performances to defend his crown.
“I know my form has dipped. This tournament is where I respond,” he said.
The U-19 category promises fireworks, with African Youth Games mixed team champion Matthew Fabunmi and cadet prodigy Usman Ayoola challenging established names.
In the girls’ U-19 division, defending champion Kabirat Ayoola faces former winner Sukurat Aiyelabegan, alongside Aishat Rabiu and Kogi’s Ise Sezuo.
An added attraction is the introduction of a U-12 event, offering a glimpse of Nigeria’s emerging table tennis talents.
The two-day competition has become a permanent fixture on the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation calendar.
Both U-19 and U-15 categories will feature 16 players each, drawn into four groups, with the top two advancing to the knockout stage.
IZU/KTO
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Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo