Nigeria boosted their chances in the Davis Cup World Group II Playoffs after recording an important doubles victory over Uzbekistan on Sunday, 8 February, at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club.
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The Nigerian pairing of Canice Abua and Michael Emmanuel delivered a composed and disciplined performance to defeat the experienced Uzbek duo of Denis Istomin and Khumoyun Sultanov in straight sets, 7–6, 6–4, in a tightly contested doubles rubber.
Both teams started cautiously, with neither side willing to give away easy points in the opening set. Service games were closely fought, and the set eventually went to a tie-break, where Abua and Michael showed greater composure to edge ahead and take the lead.
Buoyed by the first-set success, the Nigerians carried their momentum into the second set, maintaining pressure on the Uzbek serve and capitalising on a crucial break before calmly closing out the match.
The victory was met with loud celebrations from the home supporters, who played their part in lifting the Nigerian duo during key moments.
Speaking after the match, Abua highlighted the importance of teamwork and focus.
“Doubles is all about trust and communication,” he said. “We stayed calm, supported each other and executed our plan when it mattered most.”
Michael echoed those sentiments, stressing the significance of the win in the context of the tie.
“This result gives the team confidence. Every point counts in Davis Cup, and we’re proud to deliver for Nigeria.”
The win ensured Nigeria remained firmly in contention in the tie as action continued on the final day of competition. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, were left to regroup as they sought a response in the remaining rubbers.
With emotions running high and the tie finely balanced, the doubles victory proved a crucial moment in Nigeria’s push for success at the World Group II Playoffs in Lagos.
