NAF Rockets Upset Tojemarine as Ardova Handball Premier League Intensifies

The 2026 Ardova Handball Premier League in Lagos delivered a series of high-stakes results on Monday, highlighted by a significant victory for the NAF Rockets over the 2024 champions, Tojemarine Academy. According to reports from Channels Television, the debutant side managed to secure a 37–34 win in a match that tested the endurance of both teams.

A Tactical Shift at the Half

The NAF Rockets established early dominance, heading into the halftime break with a commanding 19–11 lead. While Tojemarine Academy mounted a spirited comeback in the second half, the deficit proved too large to overcome, allowing the Rockets to secure a vital result in their campaign.

Mixed Results Across the League

The day’s fixtures featured several other notable performances across the men’s and women’s divisions:

• Safety Shooters vs. COAS Shooters: The defending champions maintained their momentum with a 33–25 victory.
• Benue Buffaloes vs. Abia U & H: Despite arriving late to the tournament, the Benue Buffaloes showed resilience, battling to a 26–26 draw after being tied 12–12 at halftime.
• Rima Strikers vs. Correction Boys: Rima Strikers secured a comfortable 33–20 win.
• De Defenders vs. Niger United: In a narrow encounter, De Defenders edged the two-time champions 22–21.
• Osun United vs. Kano Pillars: Osun United were awarded a 10–0 walkover victory.

Women’s Division Dominance

In the women’s category, the Safety Babes continued their pursuit of a sixth consecutive championship title. The FRSC side dominated their match against Ekiti Queens, finishing with a 39–18 victory after establishing an 18–8 lead by halftime. Other results in the women’s bracket included:

• Plateau Peacocks defeated Imo Grasshoppers 34–21.
• Defender Babes beat Omo Ogiefo Academy 36–24.
• Rima Queens secured a 26–16 win against Funad Academy.
• SOOF earned a 26–17 victory over Rivers Queens.

Conclusion

As the 2026 Ardova Handball Premier League progresses, the early-season standings are beginning to take shape. While established powerhouses like the Safety Shooters and Safety Babes remain in strong positions, the emergence of competitive debutants like the NAF Rockets suggests a highly unpredictable tournament ahead. Further details regarding the specific standings and upcoming fixtures were not available at the time of reporting.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Channels Television

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