Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, will aim to continue their impressive start to the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket when they face Mozambique in their second Group D match today (Monday) in Abidjan.
Scheduled for 4 pm. Nigerian time at the Palais des Sports de Treichville, the encounter offers coach Rena Wakama’s side an opportunity to secure a place in the quarter-finals with a game to spare.
D’Tigress head into the tie on the back of a dominant 92–45 victory over Rwanda on Saturday. The six-time African champions showcased their depth and discipline, winning all four quarters convincingly to extend their unbeaten run in the competition having last suffered defeat in the semi-finals of the 2015 edition.
Elizabeth Balogun led Nigeria’s scoring in the opener with 18 points, while experienced campaigners Victoria Macaulay and Murjanatu Musa added 13 and 12 points respectively.
Mozambique also began their campaign on a winning note, easing past Rwanda 72–55. A strong first-half showing laid the foundation for their victory, setting the stage for a decisive battle for top spot in Group D.
Historically, Nigeria have dominated this fixture, winning eight of their last ten meetings against Mozambique. Their most recent encounter came in the 2023 AfroBasket quarter-finals, where D’Tigress edged a tense contest 59–52. Prior to that, Nigeria registered a 67–50 win in the 2021 group stage, while Mozambique’s last victory came in the 2013 quarter-finals.
Statistically, Nigeria have once again distinguished themselves at this tournament. They average 92 points per game to Mozambique’s 72 and hold slight edges in rebounds (47 to 46), assists (25 to 20), and free-throw shooting (83.3% to 56.5%). Their superior two-point shooting accuracy (58.3%) and relentless defensive play were on full display against Rwanda.
Today’s matchup will test both teams’ credentials, but with key players like Balogun, Macaulay, Amy Okonkwo, and Ifunaya Okoro in strong form, D’Tigress are clear favourites.
Coach Wakama is expected to maintain her balanced tactical approach, blending seasoned stars with emerging talents such as Vera Ojenuwa, who marked her debut with a scoring contribution in the opener.
With sights set on a record-extending seventh AfroBasket title, D’Tigress remain firmly on course if their opening performance is any indication.
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