D’Tigers moved within one victory of qualifying for the 2025 AfroBasket finals after securing a comeback 87-67 win over Uganda in their second Group B qualifier in Tripoli on Saturday.
The Nigerian team, who defeated hosts Libya 75-70 in their opening game on Friday, recovered from a half-time deficit to record their second consecutive victory in the final qualifying window.
Uganda dominated the early exchanges, taking both quarters 16-14 and 18-14 to lead 34-28 at half-time.
D’Tigers turned the game around with an impressive second-half performance, winning the third and fourth quarters 27-25 and 32-8 respectively.
Caleb Agada continued his fine form from the Libya game with a game-high 20 points, while adding seven assists and three steals. Ike Nwamu contributed 18 points, with Talib Zanna recording a double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds.
The victory follows Nigeria’s crucial win over Libya on Friday, where Agada also starred with a double-double performance of 14 points and 10 rebounds.
D’Tigers’ resurgence in this window comes after a disappointing first phase in February, where they suffered three consecutive defeats that left their qualification hopes hanging in the balance.
The Nigerian side will face group leaders Cape Verde on Sunday (today) in what could be a decisive clash for qualification to the finals in Angola in August.
A victory against Cape Verde would secure Nigeria’s spot at the continental championship, completing a remarkable turnaround after their poor start to the qualifying campaign.
