Nigeria’s D’Tigress showed exactly why they are reigning African champions, mounting a spirited comeback to defeat Mozambique 60-55 at the ongoing 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Playing at the Palais de Treichville, the defending champions looked out of rhythm early on as Mozambique edged the first quarter 13-9. The second quarter was more balanced, ending 15-15, with the Southern Africans taking a narrow 28-24 lead into halftime.

Mozambique came out strong in the third quarter with a 7-0 run, threatening to pull away. But the D’Tigress responded with grit and determination, outscoring their opponents 18-15 to reduce the deficit to just one point heading into the final quarter.

With momentum on their side, Nigeria opened the fourth quarter with a commanding 6-0 run and never looked back. They outscored Mozambique 18-12 in the final stretch, holding their nerve to secure a hard-fought five-point victory.

Veteran guard Ezinne Kalu led from the front with a game-high 16 points and four assists. Promise Amukamara added 13 points and six rebounds, while Murjanatu Musa was immense on both ends of the floor, finishing with 12 points, a game-high 12 rebounds, five assists, and three steals.

The win sees D’Tigress advance to the quarterfinals alongside Uganda, who also progressed from Group C with a perfect 2-0 record.