In a thrilling semifinal clash that lived up to its billing, Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, defeated arch-rivals Senegal 75–68 to book a spot in the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket. The game, played on August 2 at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, was packed with tension, drama, and signature comebacks as both teams battled for supremacy on the court.

D’Tigress started strong, winning the first quarter 22–17 with aggressive defense and smooth execution. Although Senegal managed to claw back slightly in the second quarter, edging Nigeria 21–20, the defending champions still led 42–38 at halftime. However, the tide turned dramatically in the third quarter as Senegal unleashed a 21–9 run, catching Nigeria off-guard and seizing momentum heading into the final 10 minutes.

But true to their championship DNA, Nigeria roared back in the fourth quarter with a commanding performance. Outscoring Senegal 23–10, the D’Tigress overturned the deficit and closed out the game with poise and purpose. The turning point came when Ezinne Kalu, a key veteran and former MVP, made a crucial steal off Senegal’s Lena Timera with less than two minutes to go, finishing with a fast-break layup that gave Nigeria a 68–66 lead. That momentum was cemented by Victoria Macaulay’s hook shot and Promise Amukamara’s clutch free throws to end the game on a 10–3 run.

Nigeria’s stars showed up when it mattered most. Ezinne Kalu led the way with 19 points and 6 rebounds, while Amukamara added 16 points and composure at the line. Amy Okonkwo dropped 15 points, and Victoria Macaulay contributed 13 points, three blocks, and three steals. Remarkably, those four players combined for 63 of Nigeria’s 75 points, underscoring the team’s reliance on its experienced core.

For Senegal, Cierra Dillard was a standout performer, scoring 26 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. Ndioma Kane chipped in with 14 points, but the team’s 23 turnovers—14 of which came in the second half—ultimately cost them the game. Despite their strong third quarter, they couldn’t withstand Nigeria’s defensive pressure in the closing minutes.

With this victory, D’Tigress extended their unbeaten AfroBasket run to 28 games, a streak that dates back to 2015. They’ve now beaten Senegal seven straight times in the tournament and are on the brink of securing a fifth consecutive AfroBasket title—an unprecedented feat in African women’s basketball.

After the match, center Victoria Macaulay credited the team’s defensive resilience, saying, “We had to dig deep, trust each other, and get stops. I’m thankful for my girls and for giving our all.” On the opposing side, Senegal’s coach Otis Hughley Jr. expressed pride in his relatively inexperienced team, who came close to pulling off an upset. Star guard Cierra Dillard, however, was visibly disappointed, saying, “I wish I could take back my last three. I should have shown better leadership.”

Nigeria will now face Mali in the final on Sunday, August 3, with everything on the line. A win would not only earn them another championship but also seal their status as a continental dynasty. All eyes will be on the D’Tigress as they aim to make history once again.