The opening day of the 2025 ITTF Africa Cup in Tunisia delivered unexpected upsets and dominant performances as five-time men’s singles champion Quadri Aruna cruised into the knockout rounds with a masterclass in precision and power.
Aruna, widely regarded as Africa’s table tennis king, obliterated Tunisia’s Myshaal Sabhi and Benin Republic’s Abdel-Kader Salifou, securing back-to-back 3-0 victories without breaking a sweat.
Meanwhile, fellow Nigerian, Olajide Omotayo also advanced to the knockout rounds, keeping Nigeria’s hopes of multiple podium finishes alive.
SHOCKER: TOP SEEDS CRASH OUT!
The tournament’s first day wasn’t just about dominant displays—it was also a stage for jaw-dropping upsets.
Congo Brazzaville’s Saheed Idowu stunned the Tunisian crowd, silencing home fans with a sensational 3-1 victory over local favorite Wassim Essid.
The electrifying match saw Idowu overpower Essid with relentless attacking shots, leaving spectators in disbelief.
But the biggest shock of the day came when Egypt’s third seed, Mohamed El-Beiali, suffered a humiliating 3-0 defeat against Madagascar’s Antonie Razafinarivo.
The Egyptian, expected to cruise through the early rounds, had no answers for Razafinarivo’s explosive game.
Adding to the list of surprises, Ethiopia’s Darara Mokonen Dufera—one of the tournament’s top seeds—bowed out early after suffering two straight defeats.
EGYPT’S CHAMPIONS REMAIN UNSHAKEN
While some Egyptian players faced early exits, defending women’s champion, Dina Meshref proved why she remains Africa’s top female player, storming into the second round alongside compatriots Omar Assar and Hana Goda.
With the competition heating up, all eyes are now on the upcoming semi-finalists, who will secure their tickets to the ITTF World Cup.
The high-stakes knockout matches take place today, and the battle for Africa’s elite table tennis crown is far from over.
TUNISIA PRAISED FOR WORLD-CLASS ORGANIZATION
Beyond the intense on-table battles, the ITTF heaped praise on Tunisia’s exceptional organization of the Africa Cup, highlighting the country’s growing reputation as a premier host of world-class table tennis events.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, ITTF President Petra Sorling lauded Tunisia’s efforts.
President of ITTF Africa, Wahid Oshodi, also applauded the Tunisia Table Tennis Federation (TTTF) for setting new standards in event management:
“We are especially privileged to collaborate with the Tunisia Table Tennis Federation (TTTF), whose active participation in ITTF Africa’s initiatives sets a high standard for hosting and promoting the sport.”
“Their commitment to sharing their rich culture and warmly welcoming athletes, officials, and fans from across Africa adds a special significance to this tournament.”
“Events like this highlight both our diversity and shared passion, strengthening the bonds within our table tennis community.”
Tunisia Table Tennis Federation president Lotfi Guerfel expressed his gratitude to ITTF Africa for awarding the country the hosting right of the tournament, promising a once in a lifetime experience.
ROAD TO GLORY: WHO WILL QUALIFY FOR THE ITTF WORLD CUP?
With over 50 elite players from 16 countries battling for continental supremacy, the competition remains wide open.
This three-day tournament is not just about the Africa Cup title—it’s also a qualifier for the ITTF World Cup in China, with the semi-finalists in both the men’s and women’s events earning a coveted spot on the global stage.
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