In a spectacular return to the world Taekwondo spotlight after two decades, Nigeria has joined the world medal list following Elizabeth Anyanacho’s great performance at the ongoing World Taekwondo Championships in Wuxi, China.
Anyanacho, the reigning African Champion in the -67kg category, displayed sheer skill and determination to defeat Uzbekistan’s Sobibronova O. in a closely contested quarter-final bout, taking the first round 8–6 and the second 10–9. Her victory guarantees Nigeria at least a bronze medal and a much-needed return to international fame.
Reacting to the victory, Nigeria Taekwondo Federation President Grand Master Tayo Popoola referred to the victory as the outcome of years of struggle and determination.
“I have been watching the championship very closely and I am extremely glad with Elizabeth’s performance. She has been very committed over the years, and this win assures us that Nigeria is back on the world Taekwondo map,” Popoola further stated.
He was sure that Anyanacho would go even further to create history. “She has two other fights to be crowned the world champion in the women’s -67kg weight division. Winning them will see her become the first Nigerian in history to win a gold medal at the World Championships. We are supporting her fully as a Federation and as a nation,” he stated.
Anyanacho will be playing the semi-finals later on Tuesday as she makes bids to claim Nigeria’s first-ever World Taekwondo gold medal.
