Nigeria Edge Ireland in Thrilling Win but Fall Short of U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Semi-Finals

Nigeria’s U-19 women’s cricket team secured a hard-fought six-run victory over Ireland in their second Super Six match at the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia on Wednesday morning. Despite the win, Nigeria finished third in Super Six Group 2, missing out on a spot in the semi-finals.
The match started on a shaky note for Nigeria, as they lost key batter Victory Igbinedion in the first over and found themselves struggling at 18/3 within five overs. However, Christabel Chukwuonye (25) led the recovery, supported by Omosigho Eguakun (17), while Peculiar Agboya and Lilian Ude provided crucial late runs to push Nigeria to a competitive total.
Ireland’s bowlers kept the pressure on, with Kia McCartney leading the attack, finishing with impressive figures of 2/13 from four overs.
Chasing Nigeria’s total, Ireland suffered an early setback, losing a wicket in the first over. Freya Sargent and Rebecca Lowe attempted to steady the innings, guiding their side to 30/2 at the end of the powerplay. However, Nigeria struck back with regular wickets, keeping Ireland on the back foot.
Despite a late fightback from Millie Spence and Kia McCartney, Nigeria’s bowlers held firm, dismissing Ireland for 88 to claim a narrow victory. Lilian Ude was Nigeria’s standout performer with the ball, taking 3/11, while Peace Usen and Anointed Akhigbe contributed with two wickets each.
Although Nigeria bowed out of the tournament, the team’s spirited performance ended their campaign on a high. The semi-final matchups will see India take on England, while South Africa will face Australia.