Nigeria’s Abdul Abdulrahman Sunday defeated African Champion, Mali’s Ismael Coulibaly in the quarter-final of the men’s -80kg at the Chika Chukwumerije Sports Foundation (CCSF) International Taekwondo Open holding in Abuja.
From the first round the Nigerian led the Malian and this thrilled the fans at the Ladi Kwali Hall of Sheraton Hotel, venue of the championship.
To end the dream of the Malian, Abdulrahman won the three round encounter at 9-6 to berth in the last four of the championship.
An elated Abdulrahman said he was happy winning the bout but was ready to crush every opponent he faces on his way to final.
“I am not scared of any opponent even though I knew he was the African champion but for me I just do my best to come out victorious. I give him respect because it is not easy to become African champion but for me title does not win fight. I look forward to battle anyone en-route the final,” he said.
More than 300 athletes took part in the N2.8m prize money tournament with West Africa countries like Mali, Gabon, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo among others participating. The two-day championship was attended by 24 states across Nigeria as well as the Nigerian Police, Army and Navy competing.
Eight events were competed for in the male and female categories.
News Source: This Day.
