African champions Nigeria’s D’Tigress staged a determined second-half comeback but fell short as France held on to win 93–86 in their FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying clash in Lyon, France, www.aclsports.com reports.
At the Astroballe Arena, Nigeria trailed 57–45 at half‑time after a sluggish first half, but they came alive after the break, gradually reducing the deficit with a strong offensive and defensive effort fueled by rebounds, transition baskets and increased intensity. Despite their fightback, France maintained composure and sealed the win.
Coach Rena Wakama named the same starting five that defeated the Philippines in their previous match, but Nigeria’s familiar slow start, combined with early shooting struggles, turnovers and defensive lapses, allowed France to build an early lead by outscoring the D’Tigress 29–21 in the first quarter. Sharp ball movement and balanced scoring kept the hosts ahead as they extended their advantage through the second quarter to take a 57–45 lead into the break.
Nigeria opened the second half with renewed energy. In the third quarter, the D’Tigress found their rhythm and outscored France 21–15. Amy Okonkwo and Pallas Kunaiyi‑Akpanah made key plays in the paint, while Murjanatu Musa contributed across the floor. Elizabeth Balogun and Victoria Macaulay hit important outside shots, helping Nigeria close the gap to 72–66 by the end of the period.
The fourth quarter saw the D’Tigress continue their fightback, scoring 20 points. Late baskets from Balogun, Macaulay and Sarah Ogoke kept Nigeria within striking distance, briefly trimming the deficit to as few as five points late in the period. However, France’s balanced attack, clutch free throws and timely baskets in the closing minutes ensured they held on for the 93–86 victory.
Individually, Amy Okonkwo led Nigeria with 16 points, her highest output in the qualifiers. Elizabeth Balogun added 15 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 three‑pointers, recording double figures in back‑to‑back games for the first time. Ezinne Kalu scored 14 points with 4 rebounds and 3 assists, while Murjanatu Musa contributed 15 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals and 1 block, marking her third consecutive double‑digit game.
Victoria Macaulay and Promise Amukamara also reached double figures with 10 points each. This marked the first time Nigeria had six players score 10+ points in consecutive games in the qualifiers.
Across the full game, Nigeria dominated several statistical areas, recording 41 rebounds (15 offensive, 26 defensive), 25 assists, outscoring France in the paint 40–30, and holding an 18–17 advantage in second‑chance points — reflecting their intensity on the glass and effort in generating extra possessions.
The D’Tigress now turn their attention to Germany in their final tournament game on 17 March, aiming to finish on a high note.
