By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria booked their place in the next round of the Billie Jean King Cup Africa Group III Qualifiers in Gaborone, Botswana, after a commanding 3-0 victory over Madagascar to finish top of Group C.
The Nigerian team made a strong statement against the previously unbeaten Malagasy side, maintaining their perfect record in the round-robin stage.
Success Ogunjobi gave Nigeria the ideal start with a spirited comeback in the opening singles match.
After dropping the first set 3-6, she responded brilliantly to win the next two sets 6-2, 6-3 and hand Nigeria a 1-0 lead.
Oyinlomo Quadre then sealed qualification with a composed display in the second singles rubber, defeating Iariniaina Tsantaniony 6-3, 6-3 to extend Nigeria’s advantage to 2-0.
With top spot in Group C already secured, Nigeria completed the clean sweep in the doubles as Quadre teamed up with Khadijat Mohammed to overpower Madagascar 6-2, 6-0 in a one-sided contest.
The victory saw Nigeria finish the group stage unbeaten, ending Madagascar’s winning run and advancing confidently to the next phase of the Billie Jean King Cup Africa Group III Qualifiers.
Nigeria will now shift focus to the knockout stage as they continue their quest for promotion from the continental team competition.
