The continued rivalry between Nigeria and Egypt in table tennis has been described as healthy for the continent.

According to the President, Egypt Table Tennis Federation (ETTF), Alaa Meshref, the rivalry between the West and North African giants could be dated back to the 70s with Nigeria dominating Egypt in all tournaments.

However, the resurgence of Egypt in recent times may have halted the supremacy of Nigeria in Africa.

“I think the competition between the two countries – Nigeria and Egypt has passed through stages. In the era of the 70s till 90s, Nigeria’s dominance was clear and this was not healthy then. When Egypt started to pick up, Nigeria seemed to slow down and this made Egyptian dominance happen lately. With the wonderful results of Aruna Quadri, rivalry and competition re-started and this competition between Egypt and Nigeria has caused both countries to seek improvement of their game and players. It was very healthy for Africa. But we need more competition in the women event too,” the acting Vice President of Egypt Olympic Committee (EOC) said.

For other countries in Africa to break the dominance of Egypt and Nigeria, Meshref said: “I think that it will take some time for other countries to catch up with Nigeria and Egypt, as we are progressing rapidly and this is widening the gap. I hope they catch up and we don’t lose grounds.”