Ogun State Women’s Badminton Team Claims Gold in Thrilling National Sports Festival Final
In a heart-stopping showdown at the Alake Sports Complex, Ogun State’s women’s badminton team, spearheaded by Olympian Dorcas Adesokan, secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over arch-rivals Edo State to claim the team event gold medal at the ongoing National Sports Festival.
Adesokan’s Redemption Arc Complete
The triumph marked a significant milestone for the host state and a personal redemption for Adesokan, who had narrowly missed out on the coveted team gold during the previous Sports Festival in Asaba. The African Championships medallist finally achieved her long-awaited victory against Nigeria’s top-ranked players in what many are calling the tournament’s most electrifying match.
Star-Studded Showdown
The championship match featured an impressive lineup of Nigeria’s badminton elite:
- Ogun State: Dorcas Adesokan, former national #1 Aminat Ilori, and rising star Omotola Felicia
- Edo State: Current Nigerian #1 Ruth Ebere, #2 Deborah Ukeh, and power player Blessing Ihenslekhlen
Match Breakdown
The best-of-five format produced edge-of-the-seat action:
- Ogun took an early 2-0 lead with two singles victories
- Edo fought back to win the third singles match (2-1)
- Edo leveled the score 2-2 with a doubles victory
- Ogun clinched gold in a frenetic final doubles match
Adesokan’s Emotional Victory
“I’ve won three gold medals in singles before, but we missed the team title last time,” an emotional Adesokan told reporters. “To finally achieve this against such strong opponents makes it extra special.”
Road to the Finals
Both finalists survived grueling semi-final matches against Lagos and Rivers States, with each tie requiring decisive doubles matches to advance. Lagos and Rivers shared the bronze medals for their impressive performances.
What’s Next in Badminton
With the women’s team event concluded, attention now turns to:
- Ongoing men’s team competition
- Singles and doubles matches beginning Thursday
Fans anticipate more high-level competition as Nigeria’s top players continue their quest for national supremacy at the Alake Sports Complex.
Full credit to the original publisher: Premium Times