D'Tigress fall to France in FIBA World Cup Qualifiers
Nigeria’s D’Tigress produced a spirited second-half comeback but ultimately fell short as hosts France held on for a 93–86 victory in their FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying clash in Lyon, France.
Inside the Astroballe Arena, Nigeria once again struggled out of the blocks and found themselves trailing 57–45 at halftime after a difficult opening half. However, the D’Tigress returned from the break with renewed intensity, tightening their defence and finding rhythm on offence to gradually chip away at the deficit.
Head coach Rena Wakama retained the same starting five that defeated the Philippines in their previous outing, but early shooting struggles, turnovers, and defensive lapses allowed France to seize control of the contest. The hosts moved the ball sharply and spread their scoring effectively, outscoring Nigeria 29–21 in the first quarter before stretching their advantage in the second to carry a 12-point lead into halftime.
Nigeria’s response came immediately after the break. The D’Tigress looked far more aggressive in the third quarter, winning the period 21–15. Amy Okonkwo and Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah imposed themselves in the paint, while Murjanatu Musa delivered another energetic display across both ends of the court. Elizabeth Balogun and Victoria Macaulay also connected from range as Nigeria cut the gap to 72–66 heading into the final quarter.
The momentum carried into the fourth period as the D’Tigress continued their push, adding 20 points and briefly trimming the deficit to five late in the game. Balogun, Macaulay, and Sarah Ogoke provided key baskets during the late surge, but France’s composure under pressure highlighted by clutch free throws and timely scoring ensured the hosts stayed ahead to secure the win.
Amy Okonkwo led Nigeria’s scoring with 16 points, her highest tally of the qualifiers. Elizabeth Balogun added an all-round performance with 15 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and two three-pointers, marking her first back-to-back double-digit scoring games in the tournament.
Murjanatu Musa continued her impressive run with 15 points, five rebounds, two steals, and a block for her third straight double-digit outing, while Ezinne Kalu contributed 14 points, four rebounds and three assists.
Victoria Macaulay and Promise Amukamara also finished in double figures with 10 points each, marking the first time Nigeria had six players score 10 or more points in consecutive games during the qualifiers.
Despite the defeat, Nigeria controlled several key statistical areas. The D’Tigress dominated the boards with 41 rebounds (15 offensive and 26 defensive), registered 25 assists, outscored France 40–30 in the paint and edged second-chance points 18–17 a reflection of their physical presence and persistence throughout the contest.
Nigeria will now shift focus to their final game of the tournament against Germany on March 17, where they will look to end their qualifying campaign on a positive note.
Join the Savid News channel on WhatsApp:
