By Debo Oshundun
TEAM Nigeria Para table tennis squad at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris says it is optimistic of winning medals at the games.
The eight-man squad for the singles event has been paired with its opponents for the Round of 16.
The singles matches are set to begin on Sept. 1.
The head coach of the team, Nasiru Bello, said the team is poised for good outing despite the initial setback in the mixed and double events.
“Though we had some setbacks back in the mixed and double events, but the players are well determined to do well in the singles events.
“We have put the setback behind us and look forward to an impressive performance in the singles,” Bello said.
Nigeria Isau Ogunkule will face world number 3, Ali Ozturk of Turkey, in the Men’s Class 4.
Bolawa Akingbemisilu will compete against Brazil’s Lucas Arabian in Class 5, while Kayode Alabi will take on Romania’s Bobi Simon in Class 6.
In Class 9, Abiola Adesope will square up against France’s Lucas Didier, and Olufemi Alabi will face a tough match against China’s Hao Lian in Class 10.
Victor Farinloye, who will be starting his event in round of 32, unlike his teammates who started from the Round of 16, will play against Croatia’s Borna Zohil in Class 8.
In the Women’s Singles, Commonwealth Games medallists, Christian Alabi and Faith Obazuaye will face opponents from Chile and Chinese Taipei, respectively.
Alabi, a debutant, will confront Chile’s Tamara Leonelli, while Obazuaye will compete against Chinese Taipei’s Shiau-wen Tian.
“We are aware of the task ahead and are determined to make ourselves and our country proud in Paris.
“It won’t be easy, but we are ready to do well and succeed here,” Ogunkunle said. (NAN)
