Junior D’Tigress produced a measured and mature performance to defeat Argentina 68–58 in their classification fixture at the FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup 2025, held at Starez Arena Vodova Hall 2 in Brno, Czech Republic.
From the opening whistle, the Junior D’Tigress asserted themselves with composed offensive sequences and disciplined defending.
The Nigerians maintained control throughout the contest, winning three of the four quarters and playing out an even final stretch.
Nigeria set the tone in the opening period with a narrow 19–17 lead before tightening their grip in the second quarter, which ended 10–9 in their favour.
A dominant third quarter (18–11) proved decisive, giving the West Africans breathing space heading into the final stretch, which ended evenly at 21–21.
The win ensures Nigeria’s place in the 9–13 classification bracket, keeping hopes alive for a respectable finish in the global tournament.
Standout performer Nora Ezike led Nigeria’s charge, registering a game-high efficiency rating of 20 with her two-way impact.
READ MORE: D’Tigress begin AfroBasket camp in Abuja as Coach Rena Wakama joins 14 players in attendance
Argentina’s Julia Bosque put in a valiant effort with an efficiency of 16, but it wasn’t enough to overturn Nigeria’s lead.
Statistically, Nigeria outperformed their South American opponents:
- Field Goal Percentage: Nigeria 35.2% | Argentina 29%
- Free Throw Accuracy: Nigeria 70% | Argentina 64.3%
Match Flow and Key Numbers
- Biggest Lead: Nigeria by 16 points
- Longest Scoring Run: 7–0 by both teams
- Time Leading: Nigeria – 27:55 | Argentina – 5:49
- Lead Changes: 6
The game was officiated by Wissam Zein (Syria), Sandra Sanchez (Spain), and Xiao Zhang (China), with Heba El Hadidy serving as Commissioner and Technical Delegate. 97 spectators were present at the venue.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL
With this result, Nigeria advance to face Korea in their final classification match, where a win could secure a top-12 finish — a promising outcome for the Junior D’Tigress on the world stage.
