…Nigeria’s D’Tigress to face Germany on Tuesday in final game
Nigeria’s D’Tigress suffered their second defeat of the ongoing 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament, falling 93–86 to hosts France at the Astroballe Arena in Lyon.
The Nigerian side entered the clash hoping to secure their third win in four games, while France were aiming to maintain their perfect start to the tournament after victories over the Philippines, Colombia, and Germany in their opening three fixtures.
France made a fast start to the contest as Janelle Salaun won the opening jump ball over Murjanatu Musa, before Leila Lacan scored the first points of the game with a pull-up jumper. Lacan extended the lead with a fadeaway jump shot, while Valériane Ayayi’s pull-up jumper pushed the hosts to a 6–0 lead before Ezinne Kalu got Nigeria on the board with a driving layup under the basket.
The hosts dominated much of the first half, outscoring D’Tigress 29–21 in the opening quarter, before both teams matched each other 28–28 in the second quarter, giving France a 57–45 advantage at halftime.
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Nigeria responded strongly after the break, producing an impressive 21–15 run in the third quarter to cut into the deficit. However, France managed the game well in the closing period, edging the final quarter 21–20 to secure the victory and remain unbeaten in the tournament.
Amy Okonkwo, who missed Nigeria’s previous win over the Philippines, returned with a standout performance, leading the team with 16 points. Elizabeth Balogun and Murjanatu Musa added 15 points each, while Ezinne Kalu finished with 14 points. Promise Amukamara and Victoria Macaulay also contributed 10 points apiece.
For France, Janelle Salaun recorded a game-high 19 points, with Leila Lacan adding 13 points. Valériane Ayayi finished with 12 points, while Gabby Williams chipped in with 11 points.
Nigeria will now shift focus to their final game of the tournament against Germany on Tuesday, as they look to end their qualifying campaign on a positive note.
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