The Benin women's handball team, known as the Amazones, has once again demonstrated its prowess on the international stage by retaining its title as champions of the 2026 Smara International Tournament. The competition, held in Morocco, saw the team dominate with three consecutive wins, culminating in a 24-21 victory over Canada in their final match. This achievement marks a successful defense of their title, solidifying their reputation as a formidable force in women's handball.
The Amazones' journey to retaining their crown began with a convincing 36-27 win over host nation Morocco. They continued their impressive performance with a 36-16 victory over the United States. These wins showcased the team's skill, strategy, and determination. The final match against Canada was particularly notable, as it was a closely contested game that ended with a decisive 24-21 score in favor of the Amazones. This victory was a testament to the team's ability to perform under pressure.
The team's success has been attributed to the effective leadership of their coach, Léonce Linta. In a post-tournament statement, Linta expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, praising their commitment, preparation, and team spirit. He also extended his gratitude to the Benin Handball Federation, led by President Sidikou Karimou, and the Ministry of Sports for their support. Linta emphasized that the team's achievement was a collective effort, reflecting the hard work and dedication of the players and the support staff.
The retention of the Smara International Tournament title is a significant milestone for the Amazones, as it underscores their status as a leading team in African and international handball. The team's performance has generated enthusiasm and pride among Benin's sports fans. As the team looks ahead to future competitions, they will aim to build on this success. The Amazones are set to participate in the upcoming African Women's Handball Championship in Tunisia, which will take place in December.
The Amazones' victory has been celebrated as a remarkable achievement, reflecting the team's growth and consistency in international competitions. The team's ability to adapt to different opponents and conditions has been a key factor in their success. The Smara International Tournament provided a valuable platform for the Amazones to showcase their skills against top-level opponents. The team's performance has set a positive tone for their future endeavors.
As the Amazones bask in the glory of their achievement, they are also mindful of the challenges ahead. The team's coach, Léonce Linta, has emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and continuing to work towards their goals. The upcoming African Women's Handball Championship in Tunisia will present a new challenge for the team. The Amazones will seek to make a strong impression and compete for top honors in the competition.
The success of the Amazones has significant implications for Benin's handball community. The team's achievement is expected to inspire a new generation of handball players and fans in Benin. The Benin Handball Federation has been praised for its role in supporting the team's development and providing opportunities for players to excel. The federation's efforts, combined with government support, have contributed to the team's success and will be crucial in sustaining momentum in the sport.
Key points
- The Amazones won the 2026 Smara International Tournament with a perfect record of three wins in three matches.
- The team's coach, Léonce Linta, attributed the team's success to their collective effort, preparation, and team spirit.
- The Amazones will next compete in the African Women's Handball Championship in Tunisia in December.
