Nigeria recorded mixed fortunes on Sunday at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, with sprint hurdler Tobi Amusan advancing, while Sade Olatoye and Ese Brume faltered.
Amusan, the reigning world record holder, dominated heat six of the women’s 100m hurdles.
She finished first in 12.53 seconds to secure automatic qualification.
The 28-year-old Nigerian edged Bahamas’ Devynne Charlton, who clocked 12.69 seconds, while Italy’s Elena Carraro came in third with a respectable 12.86 seconds.
Other top contenders advanced smoothly, including Olympic champion Masai Russell of the United States.
Also reigning world champion Danielle Williams of Jamaica, and European ace Nadine Visser.
Jamaica’s Ackera Nugent and America’s Grace Stark also secured their semi-final spots.
It’s going to be an exciting showdown with Amusan when competition intensifies on Tuesday evening.
Amusan will return to the track on Tuesday for the semi-finals, with the final of the women’s 100m hurdles also scheduled.
In the women’s hammer throw, Nigeria’s Sade Olatoye registered a best distance of 68.82 metres but failed to meet the qualification standard required.
Her effort placed her outside the top group, ensuring she missed out on progressing further, despite showing resilience during her three attempts.
In the women’s long jump event, Ese Brume and fellow compatriot Prestina Ochonogor struggled to find rhythm and failed to advance beyond qualification.
Both athletes, who carried Nigeria’s medal hopes, could not deliver their expected performances, bowing out against a field stacked with global medal contenders.
Meanwhile, Nigeria shifts attention to the men’s sprints, where Kanyisola Ajayi and Israel Okon prepare to compete in the 100m semi-finals.
The duo will attempt to restore momentum for Nigeria when they battle for qualification spots later on Sunday evening inside the Tokyo Olympic Stadium.
