Nigeria’s Taiwo Mati is confident that Team Nigeria can deliver a strong performance at the 2026 ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships in London, while recognizing the challenge that Hong Kong presents.
The tournament will take place from April 28 to May 10, and Mati will be part of a skilled Nigerian men’s lineup. The squad will be led by seasoned player Quadri Aruna, with Olajide Omotayo and rising star Matthew Kuti rounding out the team.
In the men’s competition, Nigeria will compete in Group 15 alongside Hong Kong, China, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia. The women’s team has been placed in Group 11, where they will face Australia, Uzbekistan, and Wales.
On evaluating their group-stage opponents, Mati, who plays professionally in France, expressed optimism but highlighted the strength of Hong Kong.
“Earlier this year, I saw the group fixtures and I’m really confident about our chances,” the Le Havre-based player told Flashscore.
“Hong Kong are a very good side, as well as Saudi Arabia and South Africa. I think Hong Kong will be the most difficult team in the group, but they are beatable.
“I’ve played against a few players from Hong Kong and recorded good victories. With Quadri Aruna, Olajide Omotayo, and youngster Matthew Kuti in our team, the confidence is high.”
Regarding Nigeria’s potential in the championship and his personal goals, the multi-medallist from the All-Africa Games added:
“We’re not making predictions yet, but we are confident and highly motivated to perform well.
“As a team, I believe we can go as far as anyone can imagine—anything is possible. Individually, I always push myself in every tournament I play.
“For the upcoming World Team Championships, I’m focused on staying positive and giving my best.
“Even though it’s a team event, there are individual ranking points at stake depending on how many matches each player wins. That added motivation pushes everyone to perform at their highest level.”
Nigeria booked their place at the London championships after dominant performances at the 2025 ITTF Africa Championships in Tunis, where the three-time African champions defeated Cameroon and South Africa 3–0 in Group B.
