The Yellow Greens of Nigeria opened their West Africa Trophy campaign with a spirited 19-run victory over Zambia in Abuja on Thursday, closing out a tense contest in the final moments despite a modest total on the board.

Zambia won the toss and decided to bowl, hoping the early conditions would work in their favour. Their plan appeared to be working as Nigeria struggled for rhythm during the powerplay and lost wickets at regular stages. The innings needed a lift and it arrived once Isaac Okpe walked in.

Okpe produced the innings of the match, steadying Nigeria during a difficult period and then changing the tempo with clean, confident hitting. He finished unbeaten on 35 from 19 balls, finding three fours and two sixes along the way. His late surge pushed Nigeria to 138 for eight in their 20 overs and gave the home side something meaningful to defend.

Zambia were kept in the contest by a disciplined bowling performance, with Asim Mohammed leading their effort. Mohammed picked up three wickets and applied pressure throughout his spell, stopping Nigeria from stretching the total even further.

The chase began with promise. Zoyeb Chand held the innings together with a patient 47 from 46 balls, playing the anchor role while Zambia tried to build around him. His effort kept the visitors close to the required rate, but the support never truly arrived. Once Chand fell, the chase lost its shape and Nigeria took full control.

Prosper Useni delivered a standout spell that broke Zambia’s resistance. He picked up four wickets and turned the closing overs into a procession, forcing Zambia to crumble for 119 all out in 19 overs. His accuracy and timing shifted the match in Nigeria’s favour, sealing a victory that looked uncertain earlier in the day.

Nigeria now turn their attention to today’s fixture against Sierra Leone, who are looking to recover after a seven-wicket defeat to Rwanda. The hosts will hope to carry Thursday’s momentum into the next match and strengthen their position in the tournament.

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