Nigeria Edge Uganda by One Run on Final Ball as Both Reach T20 World Cup Regional Final

Nigeria sealed a dramatic one-run victory over Uganda off the very last ball of their final-day clash in Sub-Regional Qualifier C, a result that sent both teams through to the 2027 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final. Nigeria posted 148 runs, with Isaac Danladi top-scoring with 47, and Uganda's chase came down to the final delivery with three runs needed for victory and two for a tie. Juma Miyaji was run out attempting a second run, leaving Uganda one short and handing Nigeria their first-ever win over Uganda in men's T20 internationals.

Uganda had looked well placed in the chase thanks to Riazat Ali Shah's explosive 60 off just 35 deliveries. With six runs needed from the final over, the contest hung in the balance until Sylvester Okpe, called upon to complete the over after an injury to Vincent Adewoye, held his nerve at the death. It was a finish worthy of the occasion, with both sides already assured of progression before the match began but playing with the intensity of a final.

Nigeria's qualification was dominant, winning all five matches on home soil, while Uganda finished second with four victories. "We are delighted to have won this tournament especially beating Uganda for the first time in a T20I game," said Nigerian captain Chima Akachukwu. "It goes to show how far we have come; the boys have been working hard and the coach pushing us to our limits." Both teams now advance to the Africa Regional Final, one step from the 2027 T20 World Cup.