France Edge Nigeria’s D’Tigress 93–86 in FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers
Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, suffered a narrow defeat to hosts France, losing 93–86 in their fourth game of the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Lyon.
The encounter was closely contested, with both teams displaying strong offensive play throughout the game. However, France managed the closing stages more effectively to secure the seven-point victory.
France started strongly and took an early advantage in the opening quarter, capitalising on their shooting accuracy to build momentum against the Nigerian side. D’Tigress responded with improved attacking play as the game progressed, keeping the contest competitive heading into the final quarter.
Despite Nigeria’s spirited effort late in the match, France maintained composure in the decisive moments to seal the win.
The defeat, however, does not affect Nigeria’s qualification status for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup scheduled to take place in Germany later this year. The African champions had already secured their place at the global tournament after winning the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket Championship.
The qualifying tournament in France is primarily serving as preparation for the Nigerian team as they continue to test themselves against top international opponents ahead of the world championship.
D’Tigress will now look to regroup and build momentum as they continue their campaign against other strong teams participating in the competition.