By Izuchukwu Okosi:
Nigeria's women's representative at the 2017 ITTF Africa Cup in Morocco. Funke Oshinaike, is magnanimous in defeat as she posted a heartfelt message on her Facebook page on Tuesday, on Nigeria's participation at the competition in the city of Agadir, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.
Oshinaike lost 4-0 to Egypt's Dina Meshref in the women’s singles final on Monday which means she will not be playing at the ITTF World Cup.
Nigeria's men table tennis star Aruna Quadri on Monday however booked his place at the ITTF World Cup in France with a 4-3 win against favourite, Egypt's Omar Assar whom he defeated 4-3 in the final.
The 2016 Olympic Games quarterfinalist had earlier eliminated Assar’s compatriot, Mohamed El-Belali, 4-0 in the semi-finals.
Oshinaike who represented Nigeria at the 2015 All Africa Games and 2016 Olympics wrote on her Facebook page:
"We (Nigerian contingent) went, we saw and we conquered," she stated.
"To God be the glory. We love Naija (Nigeria) so very much and we just hope that one day we will be recognized and get more love from Naija."
Oshinaike then commended fans of the table tennis stars for their steadfast support during the ITTF Africa Cup.
"Thanks to all our fans and one love all over the world.
"We won't stop doing our best for our dear country. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria, " Oshinaike wrote.
Men's champion Quadri had told the media of his elation after qualifying for the World Cup.
“I am so happy and I think I was lucky. I look forward to play in the ITTF World Cup later this year in France."
It was Quadri’s first win over Assar in recent times, since their fierce rivalry began in 2015.
Nigeria's other representatives in Morocco, Edem Effiong (women) and Omotayo Babajide (men) failed to reach the semi-finals stage.
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