Nigeria’s D’Tigress Stumble as World No. 3 France Pick Ticket to Berlin

Duro Ikhazuagbe 

Already qualified Nigeria’s D’Tigress lost narrowly to hosts and world number 3 team France 93-86 in their fourth game of the ongoing 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers in Lyon-Villeurbanne.

The seven-time Afrobasket champions lost the match in the first half as France raced to 57 points (29-21, 28-24) against the Nigerian ladies’ 45. D’Tigress however tried the catch up game, winning the third quarter by six points (21-15). The French team closed up the game in the final fourth, winning by just one point (21-20).

The damage done in the first two quarters ensured that the World Number 3 ranked team smiled to join other teams that have booked their passage to Berlin, Germany for the World Cup proper in September.

The Nigerian ladies who have already booked their ticket to the World Cup as African champions will on Tuesday play Germany in their final Group A fixture.

The French ladies who were the first team to secure their place via the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournaments, will join host nation Germany, along with 2025 Continental champions Australia, Belgium, Nigeria and USA at the main event in September.

Earlier in the qualifiers, Nigeria defeated Colombia 70-37 and also ran away with 101-84 against Philippines. They however also lost to South Korea 70-66 to stay fourth in the Group A standings on six points. France now lead the group on 8 points from four wins in four games. Germany and South Korea are tied on same 7 points for second and third positions respectively.

Speaking on Nigeria’s defeat of the Philippines at the weekend, Igoche Mark, a renowned basketball promoter and initiator of the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, beamed with pride as he praised the Nigerian women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress for their stunning comeback win.

“What a performance especially during the third quarter,the D’Tigress, Africa’s champion have shown the world what they’re made of,” Igoche said. “This victory is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of these incredible athletes. I’m beyond proud of each and every one of them.”

Igoche specifically commended Murjanatu Musa, who won the coveted TCL Most Valuable Player of the Game award, saying, “Musa’s performance is a shining example of the talent and potential that our domestic players possess. She proved that with the right training and opportunities, our players can dominate at the global stage. Well done, Musa!

He also extended his praise to the technical crew, saying, “The coaching staff and support team deserve immense credit for their tireless efforts in preparing the team for this tournament. Their expertise and guidance have been instrumental in the team’s success.”