For Nigerian basketball fans, there are few matches that can generate quite as much energy as a clash between the national D’Tigress and Mozambique’s finest. Inside homes and viewing centres across Lagos, Abuja, and Accra, anticipation ran high for this highly anticipated Group D encounter at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket, where Nigeria’s D’Tigress—undisputed queens of African basketball—narrowly overcame a fiercely determined Mozambique side by 60-55. The result reinforced Nigeria’s status on the continent, but the journey to victory kept fans on edge until the final buzzer.
D’Tigress not only defended their AfroBasket crown but also stretched their historic unbeaten run to 26 consecutive games in the tournament, a feat that continues to lift Nigerian and West African pride on the basketball map. However, Mozambique made the defending champions fight for every possession, pushing the match to a level that showcased both teams’ relentless determination and skill.
Speaking after the hard-fought contest, Mozambique’s head coach Nasir Sale reflected on his team’s effort with a mix of pride and perspective. He commended the fighting spirit and tactical discipline his players displayed, noting that key moments—some decided by just a single play—ultimately tipped the scale in Nigeria’s favour. According to Sale, “These matches are defined by the smallest details. I’m genuinely proud of what my team gave; there’s no shame in this defeat.”
“They Played Very Well” – Coach Sale Salutes Team Spirit
Despite the tough ending, Coach Sale’s post-match comments reflected the unity and commitment within the Mozambique squad. His balanced response gained respect among many West African basketball observers, who saw this as more than just a game—a showcase of growing rivalry and mutual respect on the continental stage.
“It’s tough game because this Nigeria is a strong team. This is their 26 games not lost. The Nigeria have good players, they have the good experience and they have some technology to push the team.”
“We lost this from the game in the attack. But I want to start to congratulate my team because they played very well.”
He commented that the match slipped away due to a few crucial offensive errors, suggesting that the difference between heartbreak and triumph was razor-thin. These insights serve as a reminder that in AfroBasket, every basket and foul is magnified by the high stakes of regional pride and legacy.
“We lost the game, but there are some details in the game we must continue to improve for this championship. And we wait now for the cross for the another group.”
Tense Battle Until the Final Minutes
For those who remember their last encounter—a nerve-wracking 2023 AfroBasket thriller where Nigeria edged out Mozambique 59-52—this game felt like a gripping sequel. The sides traded leads throughout, with Mozambique entering halftime ahead at 28-24 and maintaining a slender advantage into the fourth quarter up 43-42. Nigerian fans watching at home and in local sports bars could sense the urgency; Mozambique seemed poised to shatter D’Tigress’ extraordinary run.
But the magic of champions is often seen in the closing minutes. With tension filling the arena and fans across Nigeria glued to their screens, D’Tigress sprang to action. A crucial three-pointer from Promise Amukamara put Nigeria ahead 45-42, swinging momentum back their way. The next moments saw Ezinne Kalu, a frequent hero for the Nigerian team, add a layup and a vital free throw. Yet Mozambique wasn’t prepared to concede: Inglid Mucauro drove through for a determined finish, narrowing the gap to just 50-49 with 4:30 on the clock.
At that point, the contest hung in the balance, with both sides knowing that African basketball history was being rewritten on the court. However, for Mozambique, that was as close as they would come to toppling the reigning champs.
Double Foul-Out Blow for Mozambique
Fate took a brutal turn for Mozambique late in the game. Leia Dongue, the team’s standout forward and high scorer, was forced out with her fifth foul at a critical moment, visibly frustrated by the decision. The blows kept coming: Carla Covane, Mozambique’s main presence in the paint, fouled out less than 20 seconds later, leaving the team shorthanded just as they needed their stars most. According to several analysts, including basketball commentator Samuel Adeyemi, these quick fouls “completely shifted momentum and morale for Mozambique.”
With Mozambique’s two best players out, Nigeria’s experienced bench stepped up. The D’Tigress managed the final minutes smartly, using their depth and composure to close out the match and secure the top spot in Group D with a perfect 2-0 record. The Nigerian bench erupted in celebration, while fans in Lagos and across West Africa celebrated yet another step in the D’Tigress’ pursuit of AfroBasket greatness.
Leia Dongue: “Really Proud of My Team”
In the immediate aftermath, an emotional Leia Dongue told local reporters that her team had “given everything” and stressed how proud she was of their collective effort. For Mozambique, it was not just a defeat, but evidence of their progress and dogged spirit—qualities sure to worry future opponents in the knockout rounds.
“I have to congratulate my teammates. Nigeria is the reigning champion and the favorite in this tournament. They battled it out and represented our country very well. I am really proud of my team.”
As group play concluded, Nigeria marched confidently into the quarterfinals as Group D leaders. Mozambique, despite the heartbreak, still has hope; with one win already, they are set for a crucial cross-over round, needing one more victory to join the last eight. Fans, coaches, and players alike know that nothing can be taken for granted in a tournament as unpredictable and competitive as AfroBasket.
Judging by the quality and intensity on display, it’s clear that Coach Nasir Sale’s Mozambique—once underdogs, now respected contenders—will be one of the most dangerous teams in the upcoming knockout stages. No team in Africa will underestimate their resolve, and the D’Tigress know that each step forward means a harder challenge lies ahead.
For sports lovers across Nigeria, Ghana, and the continent, this match proved that women’s basketball is not just about titles—it’s about grit, passion, and continually raising the bar. Expert observers like Lagos-based analyst Kemi Afolabi note that “the growing quality, fan base, and professionalism of African women’s basketball is putting the rest of the world on notice.” Tournaments like AfroBasket are crucial for showcasing talent, developing the sport, and inspiring the next generation of female athletes.
Beyond the statistics and records, matches like this boost national pride and reinforce the potential of African sports on the global stage. With every fierce contest, West African basketball earns more respect, more fans, and a brighter future.
Do you think D’Tigress has what it takes to clinch another AfroBasket title? What were your highlights from the match? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to follow us for the latest updates on the AfroBasket tournament, Nigerian sports, and more.
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