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NIGERIA’S is poised to make a significant impact at the upcoming 2024 Africa Cup for Club Champions (ACCC) in Port Said, Egypt, with an impressive five teams qualifying for the prestigious tournament.
Falore Juyigbe, Tournament Director of the Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF), told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in an interview on Sunday in Abuja, that preparations are underway for the upcoming ACCC in Egypt.
NAN also reports that the 35th Men and 26th women editions of Africa Cup for Club Champions (ACCC) is scheduled to take place from Jan. 30 to Feb. 7. at the Youth City Hockey Stadium, Port Said, Egypt.
Juyigbe, who has just been appointed as the Tournament Director for the upcoming ACCC in Egypt, expressed excitement about the opportunity to showcase Nigerian hockey talent on the continental stage.
He also confirmed that Nigeria’s top two teams, both men’s and women’s categories from the last league 2024 NHF super league, have qualified for the tournament.
According to him, the Nigerian contingent will comprise five teams, Kada Stars and Niger Flickers will represent in the men’s category.
“Kada Queens, Plateau Queens, and Delta Queens will all fly the flag of Nigeria in the women’s category.
Other participating teams include Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, and Egypt.
He notably said that there were no restrictions on player eligibility such as age or skill level, adding that, teams were allowed to field their strongest squads.
“The Tournament format and seeding information will be released next week, once the participating teams have been finalised.
“I assure you that the NHF is working closely with the African Hockey Federation to ensure a seamless and successful tournament.
“With a total of five teams representing Nigeria, the country is poised to making a strong showing at the ACCC.
“The tournament promises to be an exciting display of hockey talent and Nigerian fans will be eagerly following the progress of their teams,” he said.
NAN reports that Sharkia of Egypt are the defending men’s champions defeating Western Jaguars of Kenya 4-2 in the finals.
While in the women’s category, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA Ladies) claimed the title after finishing at the top of their group. (NAN)
20th January, 2025.
C.E.
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