A series of upsets and the emergence of exciting young talents have highlighted the ongoing Prime Atlantic Squash Tournament in Lagos as the competition heads into the semi-final stage.
Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee of the Nigeria Squash Federation, Yusuf Durosinlorun, said the quality of performances and increased participation at this year’s event reflected the steady growth of squash in the country.
According to him, several junior players have shown they are ready to challenge established stars, leading to a number of surprise results during the championship.
“We recorded a number of upsets, and that tells you the younger players are hungry and determined. They are challenging established players and making every match highly competitive,” he added.
In the men’s quarter-finals, Shuaib Giwa defeated Abdusalam Usman 3-0, while Musa Umar beat Morinola Abudumalik 3-1 to advance.
Daniel Friday delivered one of the standout performances of the round with a commanding 3-0 victory over Joshua Daniel, while Daniel Enaifoghe edged Peter Adeleke 3-2 in a fiercely contested match.
Defending champion Yusuf Quadri, who is also the reigning U-19 champion, maintained his title defence with a comfortable 3-0 win over Ezikel Eferbo to secure a place in the last four.
Meanwhile, junior player Khadijat Durosinlorun admitted that a lack of confidence contributed to her quarter-final exit in the U-19 category after a 3-0 defeat to Lagos State’s Zainab Ishola at the Teslim Balogun Stadium.
Speaking after the match, the youngster said she remained optimistic about her future in the sport despite the disappointment.
“I am yet to build my confidence to the level I want, but I believe that with consistency, I will get there. My dad is my coach, and I know that once I become more confident on the court, I will perform much better,” she said.
“Squash is a very interesting game, and I intend to match the achievements of my sisters in the sport.”
Ishola, who advanced to the semi-finals, credited her victory to hard work, improved training and growing confidence.
“I have worked hard on my game, and I am happy with the improvement. Every match has helped me gain confidence and become more focused,” she said.
“The semifinals will be difficult because the remaining players are very strong, but I am ready to give my best and fight for a place in the final.”
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