Host team Senegal launched their AfroBasket Women 2019 campaign in style with a 77-36 victory over Ivory Coast at the Dakar Arena on Saturday.
The Lionnes, as they are fondly called in Senegal, were buoyed by the presence of President Macky Sall, who was in attendance with a couple of ministers to cheer the team.
The Ivorian Elephantes had a bright start, dominating the first quarter 18-15 but lost their rhythm as the game grew in stature, losing the second quarter 22-4, the third 28-12 and the fourth 12-2.
Senegal’s Astou Traoré thrilled the public, as she scored 19 points and grabbed 8 rebounds.
Senegal, who now top Group A, will face Egypt on Tuesday, while Ivory Coast and Egypt will clash on Sunday.
Other results:
In Group B, African champions Nigeria handed Tunisia a 75-26 drubbing also on Sunday, while Mali pulled off a shock by defeating favourites Angola 71-63 in Group C.
In Group D, Mozambique dominated Kenya 55-39.
