D'Tigress fall to Hungary in second FIBA World Cup loss
Nigeria’s D’Tigress suffered a second consecutive defeat at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, losing 71–67 to Hungary in Berlin on Saturday.
The African champions struggled to find their rhythm early on as Hungary raced into an eight-point lead, closing the opening quarter 21–13 ahead.
Nigeria continued to chase the game in the second quarter, but Hungary maintained control and went into the break with a 36–26 advantage.
Elizabeth Balogun briefly sparked hopes of a comeback with a fast-break lay-up, only for Dorka Juhász to respond with a late basket that restored Hungary’s 10-point cushion.
D’Tigress returned from the break with renewed intensity. Murjanatu Musa scored three consecutive baskets, while Amy Okonkwo knocked down two three-pointers and Ezinne Kalu added a lay-up as Nigeria began to chip away at the deficit.
However, Hungary held firm and entered the final quarter with a 52–42 lead.
Nigeria saved its best for the final period, outscoring Hungary 25–19 in a spirited comeback attempt. Balogun and Victoria Macaulay spearheaded the late rally, with Balogun’s lay-up bringing D’Tigress within just two points.
But Hungary kept their composure when it mattered most. Reka Lelik calmly converted two free throws to secure a historic victory, Hungary’s first at the Women’s World Cup in 28 years.
Okonkwo led Nigeria’s scoring with 17 points and six rebounds, while Balogun contributed 13 points. Kalu finished with 11 points and nine assists, with Macaulay adding 11 and Musa 10.
For Hungary, Juhász was outstanding with 19 points and 16 rebounds, while Virág Takács-Kiss recorded 17 points and 14 rebounds.
Elsewhere, Mali produced one of the biggest surprises of the tournament, stunning world No. 6 Spain 82–73 to claim only their second-ever Women’s World Cup victory, and their first against European opposition.
Sika Koné was instrumental in the historic win, finishing with 19 points and 10 rebounds for a remarkable fifth consecutive double-double.
D’Tigress will now look to finish their Group B campaign on a high when they take on France on Monday, September 7.
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