D’Tigers will be hoping to redeem themselves when they take on Mali in their second game of the ongoing FIBA Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament in Lagos after losing their opener 93-87 to Senegal.

The loss leaves Nigeria in a do-or-die situation as a win against Mali is needed to keep the dream of qualifying for the 2024 Olympics in Paris alive.

Point guard Uche Iroegbu came up with a game-high 24 points and five assists while Phoenix Suns forward Chimezie Metu was the only player to record a double-double, 22 points and 10 rebounds. 

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D’Tigress would be banking on their impressive form against Mali who they are yet to lose to in the last decade. Nigeria have won all encounters against Mali since 2009 (11 times), however, the West African nation would be looking to shock Nigeria who does not have some of its top talents in the competition. 

D’Tigers head coach Ogor Odaudu says the team is focused on Mali also stating that the boys are ready to go all out for the win.

“We must move past the loss against Senegal and focus on Mali. They are a good side and have a lot of strong players who can hurt you if you let them. We are fully focused on Mali now because that’s a game we can control. The boys are ready to give their all.”