Nigeria and Uzbekistan shared the spoils in their Davis Cup World Group II Playoffs clash on Saturday at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, as Daniel Adeleye’s spirited comeback victory cancelled out Khumoyun Sultanov’s opening win to leave the tie finely poised.
Uzbekistan drew first blood in the encounter after Sultanov delivered a composed display to defeat Canice Abua 6–3, 6–4, handing the visitors an early advantage and silencing sections of the home crowd.
The Uzbek star controlled proceedings from the baseline in the opening set, breaking Abua’s serve early and dictating rallies with impressive depth and consistency. Despite strong vocal backing, the Nigerian struggled to find rhythm against Sultanov’s disciplined approach and court coverage.
Abua raised his level in the second set, holding serve more comfortably and attempting to shorten points, but Sultanov remained calm in decisive moments. The world-class shot-maker absorbed the pressure before breaking late to wrap up the match in straight sets.
Reflecting on his performance, Sultanov said,
I knew playing in Lagos would not be easy, especially with the crowd behind Nigeria. My focus was to stay calm, play percentage tennis and take my chances when they came. I’m happy I could give my team a good start.”
Abua, while disappointed, acknowledged the quality of his opponent and remained optimistic about Nigeria’s chances.
It wasn’t the result I wanted, but credit to Sultanov, he played very smart tennis today. There are still matches to play and we will keep fighting for Nigeria,” he said.
Nigeria responded emphatically in the second singles match as number one player Adeleye showed grit and composure to overturn a slow start and defeat Abdulaziz Usmonjonov 4–6, 6–2, 6–4.
Usmonjonov had taken the initiative early, relying on consistency and excellent movement to claim the opening set. Adeleye, however, returned with renewed intensity in the second, dictating rallies and attacking his opponent’s serve on his way to a commanding 6–2 response.
The deciding set produced high-quality tennis, with both players refusing to yield. Roared on by an energetic Lagos crowd, Adeleye demonstrated resilience in crucial moments, securing a late break before calmly serving out the match to seal a memorable victory for the hosts.
Highlighting the importance of mental strength, Adeleye said,
I knew I had to be patient and trust my game, even after losing the first set. Playing at home gives me extra motivation, and I’m happy I could deliver for the team.”
Usmonjonov admitted the momentum shifted as the match progressed, noting that Adeleye’s elevated level ultimately proved decisive.
The result ensured honours remained even after the opening singles, setting the stage for an intense battle as both nations continue their quest for a place in the World Group II.
