Nigeria’s D’Tigress have advanced to the final of the 2025 FIBA Africa Women’s Championship after a dramatic 75–68 comeback victory over Senegal in the semifinals at the Palais des Sports in Abidjan.
The defending champions had to dig deep after trailing for most of the game. Senegal came out strong, edging the 1st quarter 22–17 and maintaining momentum in the 2nd quarter with a 21–20 edge. By the end of the 3rd quarter, Nigeria was still behind, with the scoreboard reading Senegal 58 – 52 Nigeria.
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However, it was in the final quarter that the D’Tigress showed their trademark grit and experience, outscoring Senegal 23–10 to flip the contest on its head and seal a place in the championship game.
Coach Rena Wakama’s side showcased defensive resilience and composure under pressure, with timely plays from team leaders and a coordinated team effort that turned the tide in Nigeria’s favour. The win marks Nigeria’s 28th straight victory in the Women’s AfroBasket and puts them just one win away from clinching an unprecedented fifth consecutive title.
With the victory, Nigeria also secures qualification for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup African Qualifying Tournament.
D’Tigress will face the winner of the second semifinal between Mali and South Sudan in Sunday’s final.
Scoring by Quarters:
Q1: Nigeria 17–22 Senegal
Q2: Nigeria 20–21 Senegal
Q3: Nigeria 15–15 Senegal (Cumulative: Nigeria 52–58 Senegal)
Q4: Nigeria 23–10 Senegal
Final Score: Nigeria 75–68 Senegal
Nigeria now stands on the brink of making African basketball history.
