The 2026 FIBA World Cup qualification weekend delivered a first verdict for the African representatives. If Nigeria has ensured the essential by validating their qualification, Mali and Senegal will have to play their survival during the final day.
Nigeria, a defeat to the taste of qualification
The defending champions of Africa once again proved that they could look the best nations in the eyes. Opposed to an already qualified but imperial French team, the D'Tigress fought a high intensity battle (93-86).
Worn by a close-knit collective where Amy Okwonko (16 points), Elizabeth Balogun and Marjanatu Musa (15 points each) shone, the Nigerians worried the Bleues for a long time before giving in on money-time. The key however is elsewhere: thanks to their previous successes against Colombia and the Philippines, Nigeria is officially qualified for the final phase of the 2026 World Cup. A relief for the continental basketball which will have at least one representative.
The Malian regrets
In Wuhan, the Malian hearts have gone through all the emotions. Against Brazil, the players thought they had done the hardest by leading to the start of the final period. Unfortunately, the last quarter turned into a nightmare: a sharp 28-11 that seals their defeat (73-77).
However, the XXL performance of Sika Koné (20 points, 11 rebounds) supported by Maimouna Haïdara (17 points, 9 rebounds) gave hope for a qualification at the end of the game. Mali will now have to validate their ticket on Tuesday against South Sudan. An opponent in full learning of high international level, who has fallen heavily against the Belgian armada (64-102) and is already eliminated from the race after four consecutive defeats.
Senegal at the foot of the wall in San Juan
In San Juan, the Lionesses can harbor immense regrets. Against Puerto Rico, the Senegalese team completely missed their start of the match, finding themselves trailed 17-5 after ten minutes. A handicap that proved insurmountable despite the domination of Khadija Faye, author of a solid double-double (14 points, 12 rebounds).
Beaten 56-47, the players of Cheikh Sarrr no longer have their destiny totally in their hands. To qualify, the equation is complex: it will be necessary either to achieve the feat of beating Italy (unbeaten and defeating Spain), or to hope for a defeat of Puerto Rico against New Zealand.
The fixtures for Tuesday
Mali - South Sudan
Nigeria - Germany
Senegal - Italy
