Nigeria’s table tennis player, Taiwo Mati, has expressed strong confidence in the team’s chances at the 2026 World Team Championships, as he prepares to make his debut at the tournament billed for April 28 to May 10, in Mondon, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Ranked second in Africa and 26th in the world in the team event, the West Africans will travel to London for the global tournament, aiming to improve on their disappointing performance at the 2024 edition in South Korea.
At that tournament, Aruna, Olajide Omotayo, and Bode Abiodun failed to progress beyond the group stage after defeats to Chinese Taipei, the Czech Republic, Japan, and Madagascar.
To reach the knockout rounds this year, Nigeria must navigate their way past Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa at the OVO Arena Wembley, with Aruna leading the team’s charge.
With the global showpiece just weeks away, the 20-year-old Mati is hoping to make a strong impact on his debut while assessing Nigeria’s chances against a tough group.
I’m positive and looking forward to participating in the tournament and giving my best for the team,” Mati told Flashscore.com in a no-holds-barred interview.
“This is going to be a team event, not like the regular singles World Championship, and it will be my first time playing at the World Team Championships.
“So far, so good. I’ve been preparing well, playing a lot of matches and doing a lot of physical exercises. I’ve also been speaking with my psychologist, and I’m sure that will help me a lot.
“I’m preparing really well and, talking about the mental aspect, I’m in a good state and mentally fit.”
By: Abiodun Adewale
