Angola halt D’Tigers’ winning start at AfroCan

D’Tigers of Nigeria were defeated 57-48 in their second game at the ongoing 2023 FIBA AfroCan. 

The Nigerians were outclassed by the Angolans, propelled by the home crowd at Pavilhao Multiusos de Luanda on Monday.

The home team dominated the Nigerians on both sides of the court, imposing their clear size advantage over their opponents.

Angola raced to a 19-9 lead in the first quarter, with D’Tigers struggling with turnovers.

The scoreline was extended to 40-21 at halftime, with the Angolans adding superior 21 points in the second quarter.

The Nigerians were the better side in the low-scoring third quarter. They reduced the score to 49-33.

D’Tigers improved performance in the fourth quarter was too little and too late as Angola secured a 9-point victory to qualify for the competition’s quarter-final.

Nigeria finished second in the group after winning their first game 73 – 69 against Mali.

They will face Gabon on Wednesday in the qualification round for the quarter-final spot.

The FIBA AfroCan was established in 2019. The competition features only players who ply their trade on the continent.

The 2023 AfroCan will hold till July 16, 2023.