Rima Strikers of Sokoto continued their impressive run at the ongoing 2025 Ardova Handball Premier League in Benin, Edo State, with a hard-fought 25-24 victory over Correction Boys in one of the most thrilling matches of the tournament so far.
The encounter was a closely contested battle from start to finish. Correction Boys held a slim 13-12 lead going into halftime, but Rima Strikers came out with renewed determination in the second half, mounting a resilient comeback.
The decisive moment came in the dying seconds of the match, when Rima netted a dramatic last-gasp winner to secure their seventh straight victory in the competition.
Speaking after the game, Rima’s head coach, Abdulhakim Yakubu, described the encounter as one of their most challenging yet and praised both teams for their spirited display.
“This was one of the toughest games we’ve played so far. Correction Boys had a full squad, while we came here depleted after losing seven key players to other teams. We only managed to bring in three replacements, so this win is very heartwarming,” Yakubu said.
He also revealed the team faced significant hurdles off the court just to make it to Benin for the league.
“Some officials tried to prevent us from attending this tournament, but with the intervention of a close ally of the Sokoto State governor, we were able to participate. We’re happy with our performance so far and hopeful we can finish the job in the second phase in Lagos and win the league.”
Other Results – Men’s Category:
COAS Shooters displayed dominance as they comfortably defeated Benue Buffaloes 37-27. Osun United suffered a narrow 26-22 loss to Lagos Seasiders, despite leading 11-9 at halftime.
Women’s Category:
In the women’s division, Ekiti Queens remain winless after falling 43-21 to a rampant Defender Babes side. Meanwhile, the home team, Omo Ogiefo, delighted the Benin crowd with a commanding 42-23 victory over Imo Grasshoppers, further strengthening their position in the standings.
The 2025 Ardova Handball Premier League continues this week in Benin before heading to Lagos for its second and final phase, where the overall champions in both categories will be decided.