Sports

Nigerian Teen Defender Momoh Impresses in Istra’s 5-0 Cup Rout

Published

1 month ago

September 9, 2026

Eighteen-year-old Nigerian defender Mutari Momoh has continued to attract attention in Croatia after making his first competitive start for NK Istra in Tuesday’s Croatian Cup encounter against Zagorec.

Momoh, who stands at an imposing 1.96 metres, played the entire match as NK Istra produced a commanding 5-0 away victory over Zagorec.

The former Mavlon FC defender delivered a composed performance at the heart of Istra’s defence, displaying strength in aerial duels, intelligent tackling and maturity beyond his years as his side comfortably advanced.

Momoh joined NK Istra during the January 2026 transfer window and has made significant progress since arriving at the Croatian club, gradually establishing himself within the first-team setup.

His development also earned him an invitation to the Flying Eagles camp during the summer as Nigeria prepared for the WAFU B U-20 Championship in Côte d’Ivoire.

Coach Abdul Maikaba had reportedly included the youngster in his plans for the competition, but Istra declined to release him after he returned to the club for pre-season preparations.

His latest outing against Zagorec further underlined his growing importance to the Croatian side, with the teenager producing a confident and disciplined display throughout the encounter.

With his physical attributes, defensive awareness and continued development, Momoh is expected to play an increasingly significant role for NK Istra during the season.

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Sports

YellowGreens Thrash The Gambia by 160 Runs in Dominant Display

Published

1 day ago

October 21, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

Selim Salau’s century and a breathtaking late assault from Isaac Okpe powered Nigeria to a dominant opening victory at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier C in Abuja.

Nigeria’s senior men’s national cricket team, the YellowGreens, made a resounding start to their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier C campaign, defeating The Gambia by 160 runs at the NCF Oval 2 in Abuja on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Nigeria produced a formidable total of 262 for one in their allotted 20 overs, setting The Gambia a daunting target of 263 runs.

The innings was anchored by an outstanding century from Selim Salau, who remained unbeaten on 105 off 58 deliveries, striking 12 fours and three sixes. Isaac Danladi provided excellent support with an impressive 86 off 48 balls, including seven fours and four sixes, as the pair laid the foundation for Nigeria’s commanding total.

Isaac Okpe then delivered a sensational finishing assault, smashing an unbeaten 56 off just 16 deliveries, with three fours and six sixes. His remarkable strike rate of 350.00 propelled Nigeria beyond the 260-run mark and put the hosts firmly in control.

The Gambia faced an uphill battle in their chase and were eventually bowled out for 102 in 17.2 overs, handing Nigeria a comprehensive 160-run victory.

The result marked an emphatic opening statement from the YellowGreens as they began their campaign on home soil with an impressive all-round performance.

The victory also provides Nigeria with valuable momentum in a six-team competition featuring hosts Nigeria, The Gambia, Uganda, Zambia, Lesotho and Mozambique. With the teams competing in a round-robin format, the top two sides will progress to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final in 2027.

Nigeria will look to build on this commanding start as the YellowGreens continue their pursuit of one of the two available qualification places, with their next fixture against Zambia scheduled for Wednesday, 21 October, at the NCF Oval 1 in Abuja.

Final Score

Nigeria: 262/1 (20 overs)

The Gambia: 102 all out (17.2 overs)

Result: Nigeria won by 160 runs.

Key Performers

Selim Salau — 105 not out off 58 balls

Isaac Danladi — 86 off 48 balls

Isaac Okpe — 56 not out off 16 balls
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