by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF-Africa Press Officer

However for Wafi Chams Eddine Abadli, at 11 years of age one of the youngest players in the whole tournament and one of 25 players who have travelled from Algeria, the first goal had been reached; for the first time in his career his wearing the national team shirt.

The goal he had set himself when starting to play when six years old had been achieved.

Selection for the young Algerian from El Khroub, a district in Constantine Province came following his success in the National Under 13 Championships.

“It was my father who introduced me to table tennis when I was six; one of my goals was to represent Algeria in an international tournament. I continued to work hard each year hoping that I can fulfil my dream. I am so excited that my dream became a reality this year after I won the Under 13 National Championship to be considered as part of the team. When I was chosen, my parents particularly my mother was so proud of me. I am looking forward to win a medal for Algeria in Tunisia,” Wafi Chams Eddine Abadli

Despite the pedigree of players taking part in the tournament, the young man who is as bold as a lion, has plenty of self-belief.

“This is my first international tournament and I am so excited that I am here competing. I am not afraid of anyone because we are all here for the same mission which is to win. It is indeed an honour to represent your country. I am motivated to do well.”

Badli Wafi’s club, AJK is the same club that produced Algerian national champion, Sami Kherouf, who is now based in France.