Rwanda's U20 males's handball crew faces certainly one of its hardest continental assessments but after being drawn into what head coach Antoine Ntabanganyimana believes is probably the most difficult group on the 2026 African Junior Handball Championship.
Rwanda had been drawn alongside hosts Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea and Zimbabwe in Group A of the continental match, which is able to happen in Abidjan from September 5-12.
Whereas acknowledging the problem forward, Ntabanganyimana insists Rwanda will journey to Abidjan with ambition quite than worry as they aim a top-five end, which could possibly be sufficient to safe qualification for the IHF Males's Junior World Championship.
“We’re in probably the most tough group. We have now the host nation, Côte d'Ivoire, in addition to Guinea and Zimbabwe. These are all excellent groups which have proven robust progress lately,” he mentioned.
“Enjoying towards them and beating them won’t be straightforward. However we’re Rwanda, and this will likely be our fourth look on the competitors. Our greatest end was fourth place in 2016, so our opponents additionally know they’re going through a aggressive crew.”
Slightly than adopting a cautious strategy, Ntabanganyimana needs Rwanda to play fearless, attacking handball.
“Our goal is to assault with out worry. Protection is essential, however in this type of competitors you should be ruthless in assault,” he defined.
“Our strengths will likely be our offensive play and our means to stay centered all through all the match.”
The coach revealed that preparations are but to start, with the provisional squad set to be introduced subsequent week earlier than the ultimate roster is chosen.
“The crew has not but assembled as a result of the provisional squad has not been introduced. We are going to do this subsequent week, after which the gamers will start coaching earlier than the ultimate squad is chosen,” he mentioned.
Past chasing outcomes, the match additionally represents a chance for Rwanda's younger gamers to showcase their expertise on the continental stage and take an essential step in the direction of the senior nationwide crew.
“This championship is an opportunity for our greatest younger gamers to reveal themselves to Africa and the world. We wish them to carry out properly, study from the expertise and finally progress to the senior nationwide crew.”
For Ntabanganyimana, Rwanda's ambition goes past merely collaborating.
“The aim is to do higher than our earlier campaigns, enhance on our fourth-place end in 2016, end among the many high 5 groups and qualify for the World Championship,” he mentioned.
Crew captain Thierry Ineza shares his coach's confidence regardless of the tough draw, viewing the match as a serious alternative for the crew to check itself on the highest stage.
“It’s a nice alternative for us to compete at a excessive stage and symbolize Rwanda,” he mentioned.
“We all know each opponent will likely be tough as a result of they’re all robust groups with worldwide expertise. Crucial factor is to concentrate on our personal recreation and provides our greatest in each second.”
The skipper believes Rwanda has what it takes to succeed in the knockout stage.
“Completely. We have now the standard and dedication to qualify. If we keep centered, disciplined and united, I imagine we will obtain our aim.”
In accordance with Ineza, Rwanda's largest weapon won’t be particular person brilliance however teamwork.
“Our largest power will likely be our teamwork and preventing spirit. We belief one another, and we all know handball is a collective recreation. If we keep collectively, defend properly and play with confidence, we will compete towards any opponent.”
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Drawing on his earlier worldwide expertise, Ineza believes the crew has matured and realized helpful classes from previous campaigns.
“I've realized to remain centered till the ultimate whistle, handle strain, respect each opponent and study from each victories and defeats. These experiences have made us stronger.”
As Rwanda prepares for the continental championship, Ineza additionally had a message for the followers.
“I wish to thank all Rwandans for his or her help. Your encouragement offers us additional motivation each time we step onto the court docket. We promise to combat for Rwanda, give our greatest in each match and make you proud. Collectively, we will obtain one thing particular.”
