By Daniel Edu
In an impressive display of skill and determination, Nigerian boxers Zainab Adeshina, Ifeanyi Onyekwere, and Shukurah Kareem have advanced to the semifinals of their respective weight categories at the 13th African Games in Accra, Ghana.
The electrifying matches unfolded at the Bukom Boxing Arena, injecting excitement into the ongoing boxing event that kicked off on Saturday. Quarterfinal matches took place on Sunday and Monday, showcasing the prowess of these talented athletes.
Ifeanyi Onyekwere emerged victorious in the men’s 92+kg division, defeating Keddy Evans of Seychelles with a commanding unanimous points decision of 5-0, securing his place in the semifinals.
Similarly, Zainab Adeshina exhibited exceptional skill in the women’s 50kg category, outclassing Mathiba Thandolwethu Truelove of South Africa with an impressive points decision of 5-0 in the quarterfinals. Her triumph guarantees her a spot in the semifinals on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in her sporting journey.
Meanwhile, Shukurah Kareem clinched her spot in the semifinals by defeating Sierra Leone’s Sara Haghighat-Joo 4-1 in the women’s 54kg quarterfinals, showcasing her prowess in the ring.
With these remarkable performances, Adeshina, Onyekwere, and Kareem have secured at least a bronze medal for Nigeria at the Games, setting their sights on even greater achievements.
National team coach Tony Konyegwachie expressed confidence in his boxers, emphasizing their dedication and potential to clinch gold medals. He highlighted the importance of fair officiating and expressed optimism that, barring any external interference, his athletes have what it takes to emerge victorious.
“These boxers make me proud with their commitment and determination in every fight. I anticipate several gold medals from this talented team,” said Konyegwachie. “If they are judged solely on their ability and there are no officiating issues, I am confident that all those who have advanced to the semifinals will bring home gold medals.”
