COAS Shooters pulled off a major upset in the Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 1, defeating defending champions Tojemarine Academy 23-21 in a closely contested match at the Benin City, Edo State.
The Nigeria Army side dominated the first half, leading 17-8, and despite a strong comeback from Tojemarine in the second half, COAS Shooters held their ground to hand the title holders their first loss of the season.
In other matches, Rima Strikers of Sokoto secured their first win of the campaign with a 27-23 triumph over Adamawa Warriors, while Niger United continued their fine form with a convincing 30-25 win against Lagos Seasiders.
Correction Boys defeated newcomers Osun United 26-22, and Safety Shooters claimed a 26-22 win over Benue Buffaloes.
In the women’s category, Imo Grasshoppers and Rivers Queens played out a thrilling 23-23 draw, while Plateau Peacocks bounced back with a dominant 37-18 victory over Ekiti Queens. Safety Babes made it two wins in two games with a solid 32-26 win against debutants Soof Omo Ogiefo.
Day 2 Results
The Day 2 results of the Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 1 are as follows:
Women’s Category
– Imo Grasshoppers vs Rivers Queens: 23-23 (8-13)
– Plateau Peacocks vs Ekiti Queens: 37-18 (18-11)
– Safety Babes vs Omo Ogiefo Academy: 32-26 (21-13)
Men’s Category
– Rima Strikers vs Adamawa Warriors: 27-23 (15-11)
– Niger United vs Lagos Seasiders: 30-25 (17-12)
– Safety Shooters vs Benue Buffaloes: 26-22 (16-10)
– Correction Boys vs Osun United: 26-22 (13-9)
– COAS Shooters vs Tojemarine Academy: 23-21 (17-8).
