By Vivian Ahanmisi

Algeria’s Bilel Zouitene defeated Egypt’s Asser Sameh on Sunday to win gold in the U-15 boys’ singles final at the ITTF Africa Youth Championships.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the tournament is ongoing at Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.

The boys’ singles final was a thrilling clash between Algeria’s Zouitene and Egypt’s Sameh, as both players battled for the prestigious gold medal.

The 15-year-old, a right-handed player with a shakehand grip and attacking style, beat Sameh 3-2 (1-11, 11-9, 4-11, 11-6, 12-10).

With this win, Zouitene confirmed his status as a rising force in African table tennis.

The final was closely contested, with both athletes displaying great skill, determination, and tactical brilliance throughout the match.

Zouitene used sharp shots and clever tactics to gain the upper hand and secure the victory.

His win not only earned him gold but also strengthened his reputation in African table tennis.

He said the match was tough, and he felt a sense of relief and pride after winning it.

“I faced stiff competition and had to push myself. But in the end, I was proud of the achievement.

“Thanks to my coaches for their advice. I don’t know how, but I won eventually,” he said.

In spite of the loss, Sameh’s brilliant display earned him silver and reaffirmed his place among the sport’s rising stars.

In the U-15 girls’ final, Algeria’s Tania Morice defeated her sister Jade Morice 3-0 (11-8, 11-7, 11-9) to take gold.

Tunisia’s Essid Amir and Ela Saidi won the U-15 mixed doubles, defeating Nigeria’s Tobi Adebakin and Aishat Rabiu 3-1 (11-9, 11-8, 11-8, 11-7).

Egypt’s Mostafa Badr and Younes Mariam claimed the U-19 mixed doubles title, beating compatriots Gaber Yassin and Nour Zaki 3-0 (11-9, 11-4, 11-9).

Jade and Tania Morice also won the U-15 girls’ doubles final, defeating Egypt’s Thabet Farida and Elewa Hanin 3-0.

The Algerian sisters showed outstanding teamwork and skills, overpowering their opponents to secure gold.

This victory highlights the growing dominance of the Morice sisters in African table tennis.

Egypt’s Sameh Asser and Abdelhalim triumphed in the U-15 boys’ doubles final, defeating Algeria’s Goudjil Aylan and Bilel Zouitene.

The Egyptians outplayed their Algerian rivals with a 3-1 win, using smart tactics and excellent coordination.

This win further reflects Egypt’s growing strength in youth table tennis across the continent.

The final saw both pairs show brilliant technique, resilience, and a strong competitive spirit. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo