Adeshina produced a stunning display of power and precision to knock out Iran’s Ghazaleh Rasouli just 2 minutes and 28 seconds into the first round of their quarter-final clash on Thursday. The emphatic victory ensures Nigeria remains firmly in contention for honours in the boxing events, particularly in the flyweight division, where Adeshina has emerged as a standout performer.
The Nigerian contingent, led by coach Abayomi Oyeleye, arrived in Saudi Arabia earlier in the week for the sixth edition of the Games, which run from November 7 to 21. The boxing squad includes Adeshina and Ridwan Raheem, who will compete in the 65kg welterweight category.
Before their departure, the duo underwent an intensive three-week training camp in Abuja, aimed at sharpening fitness, improving ring craft, and building team cohesion. The Vice-President of the Nigerian Boxing Federation (NBF), Hon. Omonlei Imadu, visited the athletes during their preparations and expressed optimism about their chances, noting that the team’s discipline and focus were encouraging signs of a strong showing.
“The Federation is confident in the boxers’ readiness and commitment,” Imadu said. “We believe their hard work will reflect in their performances in Riyadh.”
The Islamic Solidarity Games bring together athletes from member countries of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to compete across a broad range of sports. This year’s edition features 21 sports and two para-sports, continuing the tradition of promoting unity and excellence among participating nations.
For Saudi Arabia, hosting the Games marks a return after 20 years, having previously staged the inaugural edition in 2005.
With Adeshina’s dominant showing in the quarter-finals, Nigeria’s boxing team now turns its focus to the semi-final stage, where the country’s hopes of securing a podium finish in the boxing events remain alive and well.