KAM AD
ADVERTISEMENT
  • The Membership Club
  • #EndSARS Dashboard
  • PT Hausa
  • About Us
  • PT Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Digital Store
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Premium Times Nigeria
  • Home
  • News
    • Headline Stories
    • Top News
    • More News
    • Foreign
  • Gender
  • Investigations
    • All
    • Blood on Uniforms
    Environmental condition of communities in Damaturu and Potiskum, LGAs, Yobe. Photo Credit: Sunday Awosoro//Premium Times.

    Malaria’s Deadly Grip: Poor sanitation undermines govt efforts in Yobe, Kebbi

    Local miners at Ayilamo community

    INVESTIGATION: How Chinese, Nigerian firms destroy miners’ hopes in Benue

    ChiChi Aniagolu-Okoye

    Why Africa must fast-track gender justice, women’s empowerment – Chichi Aniagolu

    A section of the warehouse of Goddy Ukwu, an LBA.

    Cocoa Boom or Forest Doom: As prices rise, farmers encroach on Nigeria’s conservation areas

    Executive of Binance Holdings Ltd, Tigran Gambaryan, at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday... Photo: NAN

    Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan’s healthcare journey in Nigeria: What the records show

    Ibeku PHC. (PHOTO CREDIT: Mariam Ileyemi)

    Beyond Borders: How Ogun’s healthcare crisis pushes Nigerians to neighbouring country

    Tigran Gambaryan

    EXCLUSIVE: How Biden, other U.S. officials pressured Nigeria to release Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan

    A group of GGSS Jangebe students inspect their hostels for the first time since their abduction in 2021. Picture: Qosim Suleiman

    SPECIAL REPORT: Four Years After Mass Abduction: Jangebe students battle for education, hope

    National Population Commission building

    SPECIAL REPORT: Poor death registration in Nigeria affects identity system, voters register

  • Business
    • News Reports
    • Financial Inclusion
    • Analysis and Data
    • Business Specials
    • Trade Insights
    • Opinion
    • Oil/Gas Reports
      • FAAC Reports
      • Revenue
  • Opinion
    • All
    • Analysis
    • Columns
    • Contributors
    • Editorial
    Cheta Nwanze writes about the need to rebuild trust in the Nigerian legal system.

    The necessity of a united front against federal overreach, By Cheta Nwanze

    Kenneth Amaeshi writes about the Imo State government’s One Kindred One Business Initiative (OKOBI).

    OKOBI: Turning local communities into job creators, By Kenneth Amaeshi

    Reuben Abati writes about Plateau, Tsiga and Trump.

    Defections and the threat of a one-party state, By Reuben Abati 

    Umar Yakubu writes on why the Nigerian security apparatus must be free of politicisation.

    Why the Nigerian security apparatus must be free of politicisation, By Umar Yakubu

    Can an American Pope speak to Nigerian realities?, By Dakuku Peterside 

    Dapo Abiodun: Grace galore, bountiful showers at 64, By Kayode Akinmade 

    All eyes on Abiodun’s Gateway State as NSF 2024 kicks off, By Kayode Akinmade 

  • Health
    • News Reports
    • Special Reports and Investigations
    • Health Specials
    • Features and Interviews
    • Multimedia
    • Primary Health Tracker
  • Agriculture
    • News Report
    • Special Reports/Investigations
    • Features
    • Interviews
    • Multimedia
  • Arts/Life
    • Arts/Books
    • Kannywood
    • Lifestyle
    • Music
    • Nollywood
    • Travel
  • Sports
    • Football
    • More Sports News
    • Sports Features
    • Casino
      • Non AAMS
  • Elections
    • 2024 Ondo Governorship Election
    • 2024 Edo Governorship Election
    • Presidential
    • Gubernatorial
  • Home
  • News
    • Headline Stories
    • Top News
    • More News
    • Foreign
  • Gender
  • Investigations
    • All
    • Blood on Uniforms
    Environmental condition of communities in Damaturu and Potiskum, LGAs, Yobe. Photo Credit: Sunday Awosoro//Premium Times.

    Malaria’s Deadly Grip: Poor sanitation undermines govt efforts in Yobe, Kebbi

    Local miners at Ayilamo community

    INVESTIGATION: How Chinese, Nigerian firms destroy miners’ hopes in Benue

    ChiChi Aniagolu-Okoye

    Why Africa must fast-track gender justice, women’s empowerment – Chichi Aniagolu

    A section of the warehouse of Goddy Ukwu, an LBA.

    Cocoa Boom or Forest Doom: As prices rise, farmers encroach on Nigeria’s conservation areas

    Executive of Binance Holdings Ltd, Tigran Gambaryan, at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday... Photo: NAN

    Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan’s healthcare journey in Nigeria: What the records show

    Ibeku PHC. (PHOTO CREDIT: Mariam Ileyemi)

    Beyond Borders: How Ogun’s healthcare crisis pushes Nigerians to neighbouring country

    Tigran Gambaryan

    EXCLUSIVE: How Biden, other U.S. officials pressured Nigeria to release Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan

    A group of GGSS Jangebe students inspect their hostels for the first time since their abduction in 2021. Picture: Qosim Suleiman

    SPECIAL REPORT: Four Years After Mass Abduction: Jangebe students battle for education, hope

    National Population Commission building

    SPECIAL REPORT: Poor death registration in Nigeria affects identity system, voters register

  • Business
    • News Reports
    • Financial Inclusion
    • Analysis and Data
    • Business Specials
    • Trade Insights
    • Opinion
    • Oil/Gas Reports
      • FAAC Reports
      • Revenue
  • Opinion
    • All
    • Analysis
    • Columns
    • Contributors
    • Editorial
    Cheta Nwanze writes about the need to rebuild trust in the Nigerian legal system.

    The necessity of a united front against federal overreach, By Cheta Nwanze

    Kenneth Amaeshi writes about the Imo State government’s One Kindred One Business Initiative (OKOBI).

    OKOBI: Turning local communities into job creators, By Kenneth Amaeshi

    Reuben Abati writes about Plateau, Tsiga and Trump.

    Defections and the threat of a one-party state, By Reuben Abati 

    Umar Yakubu writes on why the Nigerian security apparatus must be free of politicisation.

    Why the Nigerian security apparatus must be free of politicisation, By Umar Yakubu

    Can an American Pope speak to Nigerian realities?, By Dakuku Peterside 

    Dapo Abiodun: Grace galore, bountiful showers at 64, By Kayode Akinmade 

    All eyes on Abiodun’s Gateway State as NSF 2024 kicks off, By Kayode Akinmade 

  • Health
    • News Reports
    • Special Reports and Investigations
    • Health Specials
    • Features and Interviews
    • Multimedia
    • Primary Health Tracker
  • Agriculture
    • News Report
    • Special Reports/Investigations
    • Features
    • Interviews
    • Multimedia
  • Arts/Life
    • Arts/Books
    • Kannywood
    • Lifestyle
    • Music
    • Nollywood
    • Travel
  • Sports
    • Football
    • More Sports News
    • Sports Features
    • Casino
      • Non AAMS
  • Elections
    • 2024 Ondo Governorship Election
    • 2024 Edo Governorship Election
    • Presidential
    • Gubernatorial
Premium Times Nigeria
BUA Group Ad BUA Group Ad BUA Group Ad
Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna [PHOTO Credit: ITTF Media]

Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna [PHOTO Credit: ITTF Media]

African stars fall short at 2025 ITTF World Cup

Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna and Egypt’s Dina Meshref, Omar Assar, and Hana Goda all failed to make it past the group stage.

byGbemidepo Popoola
April 17, 2025
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0

Hopes were high for Africa’s table tennis elite at the 2025 ITTF World Cup in Macao, China, but those dreams were dashed early as the continent’s top contenders bowed out in the first round.

Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna and Egypt’s Dina Meshref, Omar Assar, and Hana Goda failed to make it past the group stage in a tournament showcasing the gap between Africa’s best and the global powerhouses of the sport.

Though hard-fought and laced with moments of brilliance, the defeats highlight the work still needed for African players to consistently compete at the highest levels of international table tennis.

Assar stunned by Korean masterclass

Omar Assar, Africa’s reigning champion and one of Egypt’s brightest table tennis exports, opened his campaign with high expectations. But those hopes quickly dimmed in a 3-1 defeat to South Korea’s Lee Jaehyun.

Despite flashes of the power and precision that won him the 2025 ITTF Africa Cup, Assar could not break through Jaehyun’s tight game plan.

Omar Assar
Omar Assar [PHOTO Credit: ITTF Media]
“I played well today. Assar is an excellent player, so I did a lot of pre-match preparations, and it seems I executed them well,” Jaehyun said after the match.

Audience Feedback Survey

The defeat means Assar once again exits early on the world stage, a disappointing outcome for a player who continues to carry Africa’s ambitions.

Article Page with Financial Support Promotion

Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it.

Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you.

Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation.

Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories —no paywalls, just quality journalism.

Meshref falls to China’s Kuai in debut duel

Dina Meshref, one of Africa’s most consistent female players, also failed to advance. Facing China’s Man Kuai for the first time, Meshref started strong, winning the opening set. But her Chinese opponent recovered quickly, taking the next three games to seal a 3-1 victory.

Kuai acknowledged Meshref’s strong start and unique playing style:

Join the Premium Times WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.

Open in WhatsApp

“It’s our first encounter, and my opponent is a leftie with great strength. At the beginning of the first game, I played a little too cautiously, which gave Meshref a huge opportunity to win. After losing game one, I didn’t give up and focused on each point.”

Meshref’s technical ability and grit were evident, but Kuai’s tactical adaptation proved too much to handle.

Goda shows grit, but Polcanova proves too strong

In arguably one of the most entertaining matches for African fans, young Egyptian sensation Hana Goda faced world number 9 Sofia Polcanova of Austria. Goda put up a strong resistance but was ultimately outplayed 3-1.

Still just a teenager, Goda drew praise from her opponent, who spoke glowingly of the Egyptian’s potential:

Hana Goda

“Today was a very difficult match. Hana Goda is a very good player, very promising. She’s still so young and has many good results. I had to fight for every ball… I hope she continues to be her best, and a bright future is ahead of her.”

Goda’s composure and sharp reflexes were on display, offering a glimpse into what could be a remarkable future.

Quadri Aruna’s Swedish nemesis strikes again

The last African standing, Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna, faced Sweden’s Anton Kallberg in a battle that many fans saw as an opportunity for revenge. But instead, the match ended in another crushing defeat; this time, a 4-0 whitewash.

Although Aruna started brightly and seemed on the verge of winning the first two sets, Kallberg’s consistency and psychological edge prevailed. The defeat extends Aruna’s losing streak against the Swede to four matches.

Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna [PHOTO Credit: ITTF Media]
Their rivalry dates back to their thrilling 2021 WTT Contender semifinal in Tunis, where Kallberg edged Aruna 4-3. Since then, the Swedish star has maintained dominance.

Their first encounter was during a semifinal in the 2021 World Table Tennis (WTT) Contender in Tunis. Kallberg struggled to secure a 4-3 victory.

The following year, during the WTT Champions, the Swedish ended the Nigerian journey in the Round of 32 with a 3-0 victory.

ALSO READ: WTT Star Contender Chennai: Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna suffers early exit

Similarly, in the 2024 WTT Smash in China, it was an easy ride for the Swedish, who defeated Aruna 3-1 in the Round of 32.

The outcome again underlines Aruna’s struggles against European styles.

Looking ahead: lessons, not losses

Though the tournament ended in disappointment for Africa’s representatives, there are silver linings. The performances, particularly from younger players like Goda, offer promise. For veterans like Aruna, Meshref, and Assar, the lessons from Macao may be just the fuel needed to sharpen their game ahead of future competitions.

The ITTF World Cup once again reminded the world of Africa’s fighting spirit; but also of the challenges that lie ahead.

Share this:

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • WhatsApp
  • Telegram
  • LinkedIn
  • Email
  • Print


Support PREMIUM TIMES' journalism of integrity and credibility

At Premium Times, we firmly believe in the importance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everyone can afford costly news subscriptions, we are dedicated to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked news that remains freely accessible to all.

Whether you turn to Premium Times for daily updates, in-depth investigations into pressing national issues, or entertaining trending stories, we value your readership.

It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.

Would you consider supporting us with a modest contribution on a monthly basis to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news? 

Make Contribution



TEXT AD: Call Willie - +2348098788999






PT Mag Campaign AD

Previous Post

Court orders final forfeiture of N6.67bn mortgage bank shares linked to Ponzi scheme

Next Post

Trade Facilitation or Trade Hampering?

Gbemidepo Popoola

Gbemidepo Popoola

More News

Chinese Embassy officials hold talks with the leadership of Nigeria's National Sports Commission

China, Nigeria pursue stronger bilateral sports ties after World Relays setback

May 13, 2025
Aerial view of the edifice that will host most of the action at the Gateway Games

Gateway Games: Mixed expectations as Ogun State readies for National Sports Festival

May 13, 2025
Receiving the Torch of Unity at the Governor’s Office, Alausa, Ikeja, Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu was ably represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Hundeyin

National Sports Festival : Lagos receives Festival Torch of Unity

May 12, 2025
The winners gave fans of the game a good dose of tennis skills and competitive spirit

Kalada Kienka, Effiong Ejehi shine at NNPC/SNEPCo tennis tourney

May 12, 2025
Chairman National Sports Commission Shehu Dikko with the DG Bukola Olopade

Visa Row: AFN statement is clearly inconsistent with the facts – Chinese Embassy alleges

May 10, 2025
MTN CHAMPS grand finale crowns top young athletes across Nigeria

MTN CHAMPS grand finale crowns top young athletes across Nigeria

May 10, 2025
Leave Comment

  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Our Digital Network

  • PT Hausa
  • Election Centre
  • Human Trafficking Investigation
  • Centre for Investigative Journalism
  • National Conference
  • Press Attack Tracker
  • PT Academy
  • Dubawa
  • LeaksNG
  • Campus Reporter

Resources

  • Oil & Gas Facts
  • List of Universities in Nigeria
  • LIST: Federal Unity Colleges in Nigeria
  • NYSC Orientation Camps in Nigeria
  • Nigeria’s Federal/States’ Budgets since 2005
  • Malabu Scandal Thread
  • World Cup 2018
  • Panama Papers Game

Projects & Partnerships

  • AUN-PT Data Hub
  • #EndSARS Dashboard
  • Parliament Watch
  • Panama Papers
  • AGAHRIN
  • #PandoraPapers
  • #ParadisePapers
  • #SuisseSecrets
  • Our Digital Network
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Resources
  • Projects
  • Data & Infographics
  • DONATE

All content is Copyrighted © 2025 The Premium Times, Nigeria

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Forgotten Password?

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Log In

Add New Playlist

  • Home
  • Elections
    • 2024 Ondo Governorship Election
    • 2024 Edo Governorship Election
    • Presidential & NASS
    • Gubernatorial & State House
  • News
    • Headline Stories
    • Top News
    • More News
    • Foreign
  • Investigations
  • Business
    • Gender
    • News Reports
    • Financial Inclusion
    • Analysis and Data
    • Trade Insights
    • Business Specials
    • Oil/Gas Reports
      • FAAC Reports
      • Revenue
  • Health
    • COVID-19
    • News Reports
    • Special Reports and Investigations
    • Data and Infographics
    • Health Specials
    • Features
    • Events
    • Primary Health Tracker
  • Agriculture
    • News Report
    • Research & Innovation
    • Data & Infographics
    • Special Reports/Investigations
    • Features
    • Interviews
    • Multimedia
  • Arts/Life
    • Arts/Books
    • Kannywood
    • Lifestyle
    • Music
    • Nollywood
    • Travel
  • Sports
    • Football
    • More Sports News
    • Sports Features
    • Casino
      • Non AAMS
  • #EndSARS Dashboard
  • AUN-PT Data Hub
  • Projects
    • Panama Papers
    • Paradise Papers
    • SuisseSecrets
    • Parliament Watch
    • AGAHRIN
  • Opinion
    • Editorial
  • PT Hausa
  • The Membership Club
  • DONATE
  • About Us
  • Dubawa NG
  • PT Jobs
  • Digital Store
  • Contact Us

All content is Copyrighted © 2025 The Premium Times, Nigeria