Nigeria and Uganda have officially qualified for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final, set for 2027. Both nations showcased strong performances, finishing first and second respectively, at the recent ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier C. Their advancement means they will now compete for a spot in the 2028 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

The regional final will be a highly anticipated event, also featuring Tanzania, Ghana, Rwanda, and Kenya, who previously qualified from the initial sub-regional rounds. Nigeria, playing on home soil, demonstrated dominance throughout Qualifier C, remaining unbeaten across all five matches. Uganda also impressed, securing four wins.

Their final group stage encounter, though both teams had already qualified, was a thrilling contest for the top spot. Nigeria emerged victorious in a nail-biting last-ball finish, clinching a one-run win at the NCF Oval 1. Batting first, Nigeria posted 148 runs, with Isaac Danladi contributing 47. Uganda's chase was led by skipper Riazat Ali Shah's quickfire 60 off 35 balls, leaving them needing just six runs from the final over. However, a dramatic turn of events saw Uganda fall short, managing only three singles off the first five balls. With three needed to win and two to tie off the last delivery, a run-out on the final ball sealed Nigeria's dramatic victory.

Nigerian captain Chima Akachukwu highlighted the significance of this win, marking their first T20I victory against Uganda. Isaac Danladi was named Player of the Series for his 223 runs, while Nigerian Selim Salau was recognized as Best Batter with 206 runs, including a century. Uganda's Enock Kasaija received the Best Bowler award with 11 wickets.

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