Sports

ICC U19 Women’s W’Cup Qualifiers: Nigeria Beats Zimbabwe, Advances To Semi-Finals

Nigeria moved closer to securing Africa’s second ticket to the 2025 ICC U-19 Women’s World Cup in Malaysia by pulling off a thrilling one-wicket win against favourites Zimbabwe on Monday, clinching an early semi-final spot.

Both teams entered the game with wins from the first round, setting the stage for a tense showdown. Zimbabwe opted to bat after winning the toss, but Nigeria’s Junior Yellow Greens quickly took control with strong bowling performances.

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Peace Usen set the pace, taking three wickets for 16 runs in four overs. Lillian Ude, the standout from the previous game against Tanzania, continued her excellent form by claiming three more wickets, bringing her tournament tally to eight. Anointed Akhigbe wrapped up the first innings, limiting Zimbabwe to 77 runs for the loss of 10 wickets in 19.4 overs.

Nigeria’s chase was cautious, but Zimbabwe fought back, putting the pressure on Nigeria’s batters. Omosigho Eguakun and Peculiar Agboya were the only players to post double digits, with 15 and 13 runs, respectively. Zimbabwean bowlers Christina Mutasa, Beloved Biza, and Runyararo Pasipanody each took two wickets, nearly derailing Nigeria’s hopes.

FURTHER READING

With the score tied and one ball left, Peace Usen scored the decisive run to secure Nigeria’s victory, ending at 78 for the loss of nine wickets in 20 overs.

Nigeria now tops Group B with four points after two wins, while Zimbabwe and Tanzania each have one win. Malawi, Nigeria’s next opponent on Wednesday, sits at the bottom of the table.

In Group A, Uganda leads on net run rate with Rwanda close behind, both winning their first two matches. Namibia and Kenya are winless after two games.

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Dennis

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