Former D’Tigress guard Juliana Akere has expressed confidence that the Nigerian team will bounce back strongly from their defeat to South Korea women’s national basketball team when they face the Philippines women’s national basketball team in their next game.
Nigeria suffered a 77–60 loss to South Korea in their second match at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament 2026, but Akere believes the team has the quality to respond positively.
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According to the former international, defeats like this are part of the process and often serve as motivation for strong teams.
“I expect the team to bounce back and beat the Philippines,” Akere said.
She explained that the Nigerian squad possesses the talent, depth, and experience required to overcome their upcoming opponents.
Akere also pointed out that challenging games during the qualifiers are valuable preparation for bigger competitions ahead.
“These are the kind of tests the team needs before the World Cup,” she added.
The former D’Tigress guard noted that facing different styles of play against teams such as France women’s national basketball team, Germany women’s national basketball team, and the Philippines will help the Nigerian side refine their strategies.
She stressed that the current squad under head coach Rena Wakama has the potential to defeat any of the teams remaining in the tournament.
“The team has all the qualities needed to beat these opponents,” Akere stated.
Akere concluded by encouraging the players to stay focused and use the loss as motivation to improve their performance in the upcoming matches as they continue their preparation for the Women’s Basketball World Cup.
