Nigeria vs Zambia, 10th Match

The upcoming 10th match of the West Africa Trophy 2025 features Nigeria facing Zambia at the Nigeria Cricket Federation Oval 1. Nigeria, boasting a strong cricketing infrastructure and home advantage, has shown a robust recent form with four wins out of their last five T20 games. Their aggressive batting lineup combined with disciplined spin bowling has been pivotal. Zambia, although considered underdogs, have displayed resilience with notable improvements in their bowling unit, claiming three victories in their last five matches. Historically, Nigeria holds a slight edge over Zambia in head-to-head clashes, winning 60% of their encounters in the T20 format. Key players for Nigeria include their explosive opener and reliable all-rounder who have consistently contributed to high totals. For Zambia, their pace spearhead and middle-order batsman have been integral, often rescuing the team from precarious situations. Strategically, Nigeria is likely to capitalize on the familiar pitch conditions with their spinners controlling the middle overs, whereas Zambia might focus on pace and utilizing the powerplay to restrain runs early on. Given Nigeria's home conditions familiarity, deeper batting lineup, and current form, they seem poised to dominate proceedings, but Zambia's spirited bowling attack could challenge them effectively.

AI suggested match winner

Nigeria: 57%, Zambia: 43%

If Nigeria bats first, they are expected to post a competitive total in the range of 160-170 runs, leveraging their home pitch advantage and solid batting depth. Their ability to accelerate in the death overs and control spin bowling will be crucial. Conversely, if Zambia bats first, they might aim for a total around 150-160 runs. Given the pitch typically assists spinners and can slow down in the latter stages, Zambia's ability to build partnerships and cut down dot balls will be key to achieving a defendable score. Overall, the ground’s balanced nature means both teams have a realistic chance to surpass 150 in their innings.

The pitch at Nigeria Cricket Federation Oval 1 is traditionally slow and turning, favoring spinners with significant turn in the middle overs. Average first-innings score at this venue in T20s is roughly 155 runs. Chasing teams have found moderate success here, with a winning percentage of about 52% when chasing. Weather forecasts for the match day predict clear skies with mild humidity, minimizing weather disruptions. Best performances on ground include Nigeria's top batsman scoring a quickfire 85* and their lead spinner claiming a 4-wicket haul in recent matches. Zambia’s pace bowler holds the record for best bowling figures with 4/22 at this ground, while their hard-hitting middle-order batsman scored a vital 70 in a chase here last year.

Matches Played	Nigeria Wins	Zambia Wins	No Result
10	6	3	1

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches
Nigeria	W, W, L, W, W
Zambia	L, W, W, L, W

Nigerian Opener: Recently scored two 50+ innings in last three matches, displaying excellent technique and power hitting on the slow pitch.

Nigerian Lead Spinner: Took 8 wickets in last 4 games, bowling economically in crucial middle overs with sharp turn and variations.

Nigerian All-rounder: Contributed useful runs down the order plus key breakthroughs with the ball, proving valuable in tight situations.

Zambian Pace Bowler: Leading wicket-taker for Zambia with notable spells breaking partnerships early, showing good control and pace.

Zambian Middle-order Batsman: Recent form includes a gritty 70-run knock under pressure, vital for stabilizing Zambia’s innings.

Zambian Spinner: Steady performer picking up crucial wickets and containing run flow on slow pitches, a potential game-changer.