By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Nigeria’s YellowGreens produced a dominant all-round performance to defeat Mozambique by seven wickets in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier C, powered by Isaac Okpe’s outstanding four-wicket haul and an explosive batting display.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Mozambique struggled against Nigeria’s disciplined bowling attack, eventually being dismissed for 93 in 19.4 overs.
Okpe led the charge with an exceptional spell of four wickets for just three runs in 3.4 overs, including three maiden overs, to dismantle Mozambique’s batting line-up. Ridwan Kareem and Miracle Akhigbe provided further support with two wickets apiece, conceding nine and 17 runs respectively.
Joao Huo top-scored for Mozambique with 35 runs off 31 balls, while Agostinho Abilio contributed 20 off 12 deliveries in a brief attempt to revive the innings.
Nigeria responded with an aggressive batting display, racing to 94 for three in just 8.2 overs to seal a convincing victory.
Openers Selim Salau and Ali Rahmon set the tone with an attacking start. Salau smashed 21 runs off nine balls before departing in the third over, while Rahmon anchored the chase with an impressive 41 off 24 deliveries.
Nigeria surged to 72 runs by the end of the power play, leaving the team firmly in control of the contest. Although Rahmon and Sylvester Okpe, who struck a maximum before his dismissal, fell during the chase, the YellowGreens comfortably completed the job.
Okpe was named Player of the Match for his decisive bowling performance, which laid the foundation for Nigeria’s emphatic victory.
The result underlines Nigeria’s attacking intent in the Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier C as the YellowGreens continue their campaign for a place in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
