Top-seeded Nigerian player, Mathew Kuti, on Saturday defeated Wasiu Kolasi to qualify for the finals of the ongoing ITTF Africa West Regional Championship in Lagos.
The tournament is holding at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
Kuti overcame his compatriot Kolasi 4-2 (12-10, 11-9, 11-3, 5-11, 13-11, 14-12) in the men’s singles semifinal match.
In the other semifinal, Abdulfatai Abdubasit defeated Mati Taiwo 4-2 (7-11, 12-10, 6-11, 12-10, 11-6, 11-6).
Kuti and Abdubasit will now face off in the final of the men’s singles event.
Speaking with News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, at the venue, footballer, Ogenyi Onazi, emphasised the value of hard work, dedication, and perseverance in sports success.
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“I am also a table tennis enthusiast. I came here to support and cheer on the players.
“We are all Nigerians. I’m here to promote sports in general and encourage the athletes,” Onazi said.
He described the tournament as exciting.
“I’ve been here for two days and witnessed impressive talent and competition.
“I believe the sport needs more media attention. I told the president it’s not well publicised in Nigeria.
“I only heard about the tournament during my training session in table tennis,” Onazi.
He said a bigger tournament was expected to start on Tuesday, July 22, which presents a great platform for young players.
“You can see many young talents here. We need to give more attention to this table tennis event,” Onazi said.
The finals of the men’s singles will take place later on Saturday.
Source: NAN
