2024 Africa Cup Sevens Tourney: Black Stallions Will Bounce Back In 2nd Leg-Are Assures

2024 Africa Cup Sevens Tourney: Black Stallions Will Bounce Back In 2nd Leg-Are Assures

Ibrahim Lateef

Nigeria's senior national rugby team, the Black Stallions, encountered significant challenges during the first round of the Africa Cup Sevens tournament in Mauritius, reports BSNSports.com.ng.

In a challenging group with Kenya, Madagascar, and hosts Mauritius, the team struggled without key players including captain Declan Nwachukwu, co-captain Olukolade Awobowale, former captain Onoru Jatto, and Olu Odunlami due to a bone bruise. The Black Stallions started their campaign against Madagascar, losing 36-14. They then faced Kenya, losing 25-0, and their third match against hosts Mauritius ended in a 26-5 defeat.

In the 9th place semi-final, Nigeria defeated Tunisia 19-5 but eventually lost to Zambia 22-7 in the 9th/10th placement match.

Speaking after the first round, Nigeria Rugby Football Federation (NRFF) President Dr. Ademola Are assured that the Black Stallions would bounce back in the second leg of the tournament.

 "We had some challenges that affected the team's performance. Our captain and co-captain couldn't make it due to injury, and other key players from the Olympic qualifiers were also unavailable, affecting the team's chemistry. However, in the second leg, we hope to do better as there will be a better understanding among the players," he concluded.