2017 ITTF Africa Cup: Quadri beats Assar to qualify for World Cup

By Akeem Lawal

Nigeria’s No.1 Table Tennis player, Aruna Quadri overcame his longtime rival, Egypt’s Omar Assar, in the final of the 2017 ITTF Africa Cup to qualify for the World Cup later this year.

Having conquered Mohamed El-Beiali 4-0 in the semifinal, Quadri showed class to beat Assar 4-3 in the men’s singles final.

Quadri who played without a coach was formidable throughout the encounter even when Assar was in the lead. 

“I am so happy and I think luck was in my favour and I look forward to play in the ITTF World Cup later this year in France,” an elated Quadri said after the victory. 

Aruna with Dina Meshref

In the women’s singles final, Olufunke Oshonaike succumbed to Egypt’s Dina Meshref in the final as the Nigerian lost 4-0. 

Quadri and Dina Meshref will represent Africa at the ITTF World Cups later in the year.