Nigeria’s D’Tigers face a tricky start to the second round of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers as they take on Cameroon in their opening game at the Salle Multidisciplinaire de Radès in Radès, Tunisia.
D’Tigers advanced to the second round following an impressive performance in the second window of the opening round, recording three wins from three games to secure qualification. The campaign had begun poorly, however, with defeats to Tunisia and Guinea in their first two matches.
Nigeria have now won four of their last five games in the qualifying series, but they face an in-form Cameroon side that has won five consecutive matches. Cameroon’s last defeat came against Cape Verde in their opening qualifier in November 2025.
D’Tigers will head into the game with renewed confidence after strengthening their roster with the return of key players, including Josh Okogie, Chima Moneke and Chimezie Metu, as well as debutant Udoka Azubuike.
More Read
Nigeria have been drawn alongside South Sudan, Guinea, Tunisia, Cape Verde and Cameroon in the second round. During this window, they will face Cameroon, South Sudan and Cape Verde.
Speaking ahead of the game, veteran forward Stan Okoye urged the team to remain focused and approach every opponent with the utmost respect.
“We have to stay in the moment. From the jump ball and through every possession, we must focus on the moment and take it game by game.
“Every game is going to be a battle, and these teams are all very different.
“South Sudan play a more or less American style of basketball. They are very talented, athletic and tall, and they can shoot the ball very well.
“Cameroon are very strong and physical, with good guard play and a really good shooter. They present a very different challenge.
“Cape Verde also offer a completely different dynamic. I’m not sure if Tavares is here this time.
“So, we have to show a different side of ourselves each day while understanding that we must always be the best version of ourselves,” Okoye concluded.
D’Tigers will be particularly wary of Cameroon’s Fabian Ateba, who has averaged 17.3 points per game during the qualifying campaign. Jeremiah Hill is averaging 15 points per game, while Jordan Bayehe has contributed an average of 10.2 points per game.
© Bold Sports Media. All rights reserved. If sharing, kindly credit Bold Sports as the source and include a link to the original post. Unauthorised use is prohibited.
