Ogun State's male handball team emerged victorious against Lagos State in a nail-biting final match at the Gateway Games, securing the gold medal with an 18-16 win at the Alake Sports Center in Abeokuta on Thursday.
The highly anticipated final, which had been suspended on Wednesday due to heavy rainfall, resumed with Ogun holding a narrow 7-6 advantage with less than two minutes remaining in the first half. When play continued on Thursday, Ogun maintained their momentum to lead 8-7 at halftime.
The second half saw Ogun gradually extending their lead through disciplined defensive coordination and effective counterattacks. Despite a determined comeback attempt from Lagos, the home team held firm to secure the two-point victory, much to the delight of the local supporters who erupted in celebration at the final whistle.
This victory completes a handball sweep for Ogun State at the Gateway Games, as their female team had previously defeated Sokoto State 38-34 on Wednesday to also claim gold in their category.
In the men's bronze medal match played on Tuesday, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) team from Abuja secured third place with a commanding 30-17 win over Edo State.
The Gateway Games continue to showcase sporting talent from across Nigeria, with handball being one of the many disciplines featured in this multi-sport competition.
