Nigeria beat Gambia 3-1 (25-20, 23-25, 25-20, 25-19) to get closer to U19 World Championship berth on Saturday at the indoor sport hall in Abuja.
Nigeria got off to a quick start. Gambia came back strong but trailed 8-6 at the first technical timeout. There was massive cheering as Gambia drew level at 15all.
A killer spike from Nigeria helped them on their way to a 16-15 lead. Gambia closed the gap with some good blocking and passionate play although a Gambian hitting error gave the host first set win 25-20.
Nigeria attacked with purpose and led 8-7 afterwards. The Gambia opted to disorganize the Nigerians with monster blocks and an ace and they got a run of points to narrow the gap 16-15. The ensuing fight was point for point and Gambia were too strong and ran clear to take the set 25-23.
There was a strong Nigeria support and plenty of cheers for the Nigerians as the stadium filled up even after the match had started. Gambia were in trouble early on in the set again as the host pushed on confidently from 8-5 to lead 20-17. There was good pickups from both teams as they fought for the last few points and Nigeria killed it at 25-20.
Nigeria kept the pressure on in the 4th set and led 16-11. The Gambia looked a little lost in the set as the host rocketed to an 18-12 lead. Gambia narrow that lead to 18-16, and Nigeria won 25-19. To win the game 3-1
The crowd enjoyed another home team win as Nigeria now edge closer and look confident of challenging for a medal position.
