Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup have ended in disappointment as the Yellow Greens finished sixth at the Africa Qualifiers following a 66-run defeat to Uganda in the fifth-place playoff on Saturday.

Uganda set a daunting total of 196 for 7, led by an unbeaten 66 from Riazat Ali Shah, whose composed innings anchored their batting performance.

In reply, Nigeria could only muster 130 for 7 in 20 overs, despite a determined effort from captain Sylvester Okpe, who top-scored with 26 runs and also picked up two wickets.

Throughout the tournament, Nigeria managed two wins — against Malawi and Botswana — but suffered defeats to Namibia, Kenya, and Uganda. The team showed glimpses of potential, yet struggled for consistency against stronger opposition.

Zimbabwe and Namibia secured Africa’s two qualification spots for the 2026 T20 World Cup and will join South Africa as the continent’s representatives at the global showpiece.