By Andrew Abah
Team Nigeria is guaranteed gold in the girls’ category of the 2025 CAVB Beach Volleyball U18 Continental Championship, as Nigeria I and Nigeria II will face off in an all-Nigerian final on Thursday, August 7, at Jabi Lake, Abuja.
The pair of Pamela Bawa and Joy Lauren (Nigeria I) advanced to the final with a straight-set victory over DR Congo, winning 2-0 (21-17, 21-14) on Wednesday evening.
In the second semifinal, Ifechukwu Odoh and Blessing Anebi (Nigeria II) came from behind to defeat Egypt I in a thrilling three-set encounter, 2-1 (20-22, 21-18, 15-11).
DR Congo and Egypt I will now battle for bronze in the third-place match.
Speaking after their semifinal win, an elated Pamela Bawa expressed her excitement and desire to win the gold medal for Nigeria.
She said, "I am excited, happy, and thankful to God for granting us the privilege to be in the final and represent the country. I know, by His grace, we are going to win the gold medal," she said.
The 2023 African Games bronze medallist, also looked ahead to the FIVB U18 Beach Volleyball World Championship to be held in Australia and Doha, affirming her determination to make an impact on the global stage.
She added, "The World Championship means a lot to us. We’re going to give it our best. It won’t be easy, but we’re prepared to fight and come out in flying colours."
In the boys’ category, DR Congo booked their place in the final after defeating Nigeria III (Triumphant Ezeji and Ibrahim Ijai) in straight sets, 2-0 (21-17, 21-13).
Gambia edged past Nigeria I (Isaac James and Michael Etido) in a tightly contested match, winning 2-1 (21-16, 14-21, 15-10).
DR Congo and Gambia will now face off for the boys' title, while Nigeria I and Nigeria III will play in the third-place match.