“Rampaging” Senegal Crush Nigeria’s AfroBasket Hopes with Commanding Quarterfinal Win
Luanda, Angola, Nigeria’s spirited run at the 2025 FIBA Men’s AfroBasket Championship came to a decisive halt yesterday, as the D’Tigers were overpowered 91–75 by their West African counterparts, the Senegal Lions, in a high-stakes quarterfinal at the Pavilhao Multiusos de Luanda.
Fast-Paced Contest Turns Momentum in Senegal’s Favor
The thrilling first quarter saw both teams exchange leads seven times, with Nigeria narrowly ahead 24–23 as the period closed. However, Senegal struck early in the second quarter when Jean Jacques Boissy sank a timely three-pointer to go up 26–24, followed swiftly by another from Amar Sylla, extending the advantage to 29–24. From that point on, the D’Tigers were unable to regain control. The Lions pulled away further with a 13–5 run, and by the third quarter had enlarged the gap to as much as 24 points.
Late Resistance Not Enough
Nigeria staged a commendable comeback in the fourth quarter, outscoring Senegal 20–15, but the damage had already been done. The Lions held on to seal a comfortable 91–75 victory.
End of a Hopeful Campaign
Nigeria’s journey ends as they fall short of their dream to claim a second continental title—last achieved in 2015. The team, led by coach Mohammed Abdulrahman, had opened the tournament impressively, winning all group-stage games against Madagascar, Tunisia, and Cameroon.
The Nation Newspaper
Redemption for Senegal
Senegal’s dominant performance marks a moment of emotional vindication, especially following their women’s team’s narrow semi-final loss to Nigeria’s D’Tigress at the recent Women’s AfroBasket in Côte d’Ivoire, where Nigeria ultimately claimed the championship.
What’s Next
Senegal has advanced to the semifinals and will face Mali, whom they previously defeated 80–70 during the group stage.