The third encounter between Cote d’Ivoire and Nigeria in the history of the FIBA Basketball World Cup African qualifiers proved worthy by all standards with each team showing determination to win.
However, the willpower to win showed more on the part of the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire that had the home crowd routing endlessly for them and they did not disappoint to record a 78-66 win over Nigeria.
The victory over Nigeria meant that Cote d’Ivoire remained unblemished in the qualifiers so far.
After the game, D’Tigers’ guard, Josh Okogie after the game said: “Scoring 23 points in this game to me is not what I came for. It’s not personal for me especially when my team lost. My goal coming to Cote d’Ivoire is to give my best in helping Nigeria win. That has not happened but I will do my best to contribute more for Nigeria to get better in our other games.”
Meanwhile, Nigeria Coach Mfon Udofia says all hope is not lost yet. “Cote d’Ivoire right now is outstanding in this qualifiers and they were good tonight but 21 turnovers on our part really hurt us in the game. However, we will do some clean-up and improve our game given the fact that this particular unit is playing together for the first time.”
In one of the big games on Friday in Monastir, a fearless and combative Egypt sent a statement after beating the reigning African champions Tunisia in front of their home crowd.
The 67-61 victory not only helped Egypt improve their FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 African qualifiers record to 6-1, but it also ended Tunisia’s unbeaten home run (15-0).
Tunisia’s last home loss happened on 29 August 2015 in the semi-finals of the African Championship against Angola.
Also in Monastir, Senegal ended South Sudan winning run with a 69-66 points victory. Earlier in the day, Cameroon, led by Paris Lee secured her second win in the qualifiers with a 71-69 points over DR Congo.
2023 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers Update:
Group E
Guinea 48
Cape Verde 65
Angola 84
Uganda 62
Cote D’Ivoire 78
Nigeria 66
Group F
DR Congo 69
Cameroon 71
Egypt 67
Tunisia 61
Senegal 69
South Sudan 66