The duo of Nigerian University athletes Elizabeth Anyanacho (teakwondo) and Godwin Olofua (badminton) can now be referred to as Olympians as they both competed for the first time at the games in Tokyo.

Godwin Olofua (Badminton):Olofua and partner Opeyori Anuoluwapo Juwon played Japanese duo of Wantanabe Yuta and Endo Hiroyuki in the men’s doubles event in group match 6 of the group play stage at the Musashino Forest Sport Plaza in Tokyo.

The Nigerian duo lost in straight sets 21-2, 21-7, in their first game. They also fell to Denmark duo of Rasmussen Anders Skaarup and Astrup Kim 2-0, 21-7, 21-10.

“it’s just very sad we lost these games but we have learnt from them and will do better in the future” Olofua said.

The duo will play a final group game against the Russia Olympic Committee on tuesday 27th July 2021, where they hope to record their first victory.

 

Elizabeth Anyanacho (teakwondo):

Team Nigeria’s only representative in Taekwondo, Elizabeth Anyanacho, early Monday morning lost out to double Olympic medalist and former world champion, Nur Tartar of Turkey in the women’s -67kg taekwondo event.The 22-year-old Anyanacho lost 12-7 to her more illustrious and vastly experienced opponent.

But it’s not a fight the 28-year-old former world champion would forget in a hurry as Anyanacho showed glimpses of brilliance throughout the duration of the bout.

“I have cried and I still feel hurt because I wanted to spring a good surprise, despite being 4 years early to my original Paris 2024 Olympics. It has been quite a journey. Truly, a long and challenging journey with a rollercoaster of emotions. It will be a difficult few weeks and months ahead of me, because I will keep replaying today in my head, and trying to replay all I could have done. But it is OK, because the lessons will help my development.

I thank you for your constant love, encouragement and support. You are the best ever.