Nigeria’s D’Tigress were beaten by France 84-62 in the 5-8 classification game of the 2018 FIBA Women’s World Cup at the San Cristobal de la Laguna, Martin Arena on Saturday.
It is their second consecutive loss in two days after a fairy tale ride in the competition. Nigeria had lost to the United States of America in the quarter final game 24 hours earlier.
D’Tigress captain, Adora Elonu who has had a quiet outing, led other three D’Tigress players with 15 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 assists. She made 70% of her FG and 1 block shot.
Atonye Nyigifa added 12 points, Sarah Ogoke 11 points and 5 rebounds while Promise Amukamara contributed 10 points and 4 assists. Ogoke made 3/8 from the arc while Amukamara made 100% of her 3s , 2 of 2.
Nigeria won the first quarter 20-18 but the French side led from mid way in the second quarter and pulled away in second half after Nigeria had lost steam.
Four French players also finished on double figures. Helena Ciak came off the bench to score 16 points, 5 rebounds, 86% FG and 80% FT. Sandrine Gruda had 15 points, 5 rebounds, Sarah Michel scored 12 points and 4 assists while Diandra Tchatchouary added 10 points and 4 rebounds, 100% FG.
Both teams suffered same number of turnovers 18 apiece in the entire game.
Nigeria will next play the loser between China and Canada in the 7- 8 classification game on Sunday while France will take on the winner in the 5-6 classification game.
In the semifinal game, defending champions United States of America will slug it out with tournament dark horses, Belgium while Australia led by Nigerian-born Liz Cambage will take on host, Spain.
The 8-day tournament will come to an end on Sunday, September 30 in Tenerife Spain.
