Handball League: NAF Rockets Stun Tojemarine as Safety Babes Chase Sixth Straight Title

Posted : 10 November 2026

NAF Rockets delivered one of the biggest surprises of Matchday Three of the 2026 Ardova Handball Premier League after defeating former champions Tojemarine Academy 37-34 in an exciting men's encounter in Lagos on Monday.

The newcomers to the top-flight competition produced an impressive performance against the 2024 champions, establishing an eight-goal advantage before half-time. NAF Rockets went into the break leading 19-11 after dominating the opening period.

Tojemarine returned with greater determination in the second half and attempted to overturn the deficit. However, NAF Rockets remained composed under pressure to protect their advantage and secure a memorable 37-34 victory.

In another closely contested men's fixture, Benue Buffaloes held U&H Abia to a 26-26 draw despite arriving at the competition venue only a day before their opening match.

Both sides delivered an evenly balanced performance, heading into half-time level at 12-12. Neither team managed to establish a decisive advantage after the restart, resulting in a share of the points.

Defending champions Safety Shooters also maintained their strong form with a convincing 33-25 victory over COAS Shooters.

Rima Strikers recorded a comfortable 33-20 win against Correction Boys, while De Defenders secured a narrow 22-21 victory over two-time champions Niger United in one of the day's closest encounters.

Osun United also collected maximum points after Kano Pillars conceded a 10-0 walkover victory.

In the women's category, Safety Babes continued their impressive campaign with a commanding 39-18 triumph over Ekiti Queens.

The FRSC-sponsored champions established an 18-8 lead at half-time before extending their advantage in the second period. The victory strengthened their pursuit of an unprecedented sixth consecutive Ardova Handball Premier League title.

Safety Babes have established themselves as the dominant force in Nigerian women's handball, and their latest performance further demonstrated their determination to maintain that status.

Elsewhere, Plateau Peacocks defeated Imo Grasshoppers 34-21, while Defender Babes secured a 36-24 victory over Omo Ogiefo Academy.

Rima Queens also enjoyed a comfortable outing, beating Funad Academy 26-16. SOOF completed the day's women's fixtures with a 26-17 victory over Rivers Queens.

The 2026 Ardova Handball Premier League continues on Tuesday at the Rowe Park Sports Centre in Yaba, Lagos, with participating teams seeking valuable points as the competition progresses.

Attention will remain on Safety Babes as they pursue a historic sixth successive championship, while NAF Rockets will look to build on their impressive victory over Tojemarine Academy.

Handball League: NAF Rockets Stun Tojemarine as Safety Babes Chase Sixth Straight Title

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