African champions Nigeria’s D’Tigress were edged out 81–73 by Germany in their final 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying tournament in Lyon, www.aclsports.com reports.
In five-time FIBA Women’s AfroBasket winner Sarah Ogoke’s farewell appearance, the team remained competitive throughout most of the match. However, Germany’s late execution and a fourth-quarter surge ultimately secured the win.
The opening period featured intense defense, turnovers, and missed chances on both ends. The visitors gained an early edge, 17–14, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities and Nigeria’s early shooting struggles. Despite hustle plays from Ifunanya Okoro and Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah, Coach Rena Wakama’s side struggled to finish around the rim. Germany’s Nyara Sabally and Leonie Fiebich scored late baskets to maintain a slim lead.
Nigeria found better rhythm in the second period, led by Elizabeth Balogun’s perimeter shooting and aggressive drives. Murjanatu Musa and Victoria Macaulay also contributed inside, keeping the game tight. Yet Germany remained composed, with Alexis Peterson directing the offense and Emma Eichmeyer adding key points to extend their advantage to 35–31 at halftime. Balogun paced her side with 12 points, while Macaulay added four.
After the break, D’Tigress increased defensive intensity. Amy Okonkwo and Murjanatu Musa scored crucial baskets, while Ezinne Kalu facilitated play effectively. Nigeria briefly drew level and threatened to seize control, but Sabally and Fiebich responded to preserve a narrow 54–52 lead heading into the final period.
The decisive final period belonged to the visitors. Germany’s depth and precise execution, including timely three-pointers from Emily Bessoir and Frieda Bühner, combined with Peterson’s control, opened a gap. Nigeria fought hard, with contributions from Musa, Okonkwo, and Balogun, but missed attempts and defensive lapses allowed the opposition to close out the contest.
Individually, Balogun led with 15 points, Musa added 13 and six rebounds, and Okonkwo contributed 12. Promise Amukamara chipped in across the floor, while Macaulay anchored the boards with seven rebounds.
Overall, Nigeria shot 37 percent from the field compared to 42 percent for Germany, conceding 19 fast-break points. Despite forcing 18 turnovers and remaining competitive on the glass, Germany’s efficiency in key moments proved decisive.
The D’Tigress can take positives from the display but will need to sharpen shooting and execution ahead of the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin, scheduled from 4 – 13 September.
