Ferroviario de Maputo’s Epic Comeback as APR blows up 22-point lead.

Ferroviario de Maputo’s Epic Comeback as APR blows up 22-point lead.

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In a semifinal showdown that will be etched in the annals of African basketball history, Ferroviario de Maputo staged an electrifying comeback to outclass APR 86-71 and secure their spot in the 2024 Women's Basketball League Africa (WBLA) Final. The game, a gripping contest of two contrasting halves, showcased the Mozambican side’s resilience, tactical genius, and unyielding spirit against a star-studded Rwandese opponent.

The opening half was a clinic in offensive execution for APR. Led by the dynamic duo of Italee Lucas and Kierstan Bell, the Rwandese team stormed to a commanding 51-33 halftime lead. Their relentless attack, bolstered by quick ball movement and pinpoint shooting, had Ferroviario on the ropes. APR’s ability to exploit Ferroviario's defensive lapses in transition and dominate the perimeter seemed to spell doom for the former African champions. In the shadows of APR’s brilliance, Ferroviario’s determination simmered, ready to ignite.

The third quarter began with a spark fueled by Destiny Pitts. Ferroviario emerged from the locker room with an intensity that immediately disrupted APR’s rhythm. Pitts and Ingvild Mucauro orchestrated a jaw-dropping 30-15 third-quarter blitz, fueled by stifling defense and deadly efficiency on offense.

The Mozambicans thrived on their full-court pressure, forcing turnover after turnover. Anabela Cossa, the heartbeat of Ferroviario’s offense, began raining threes with deadly accuracy, dropping eight treys in the game. Her 31 points in just 29 minutes electrified the crowd, which roared with every long-range dagger. By the end of the third quarter, Ferroviario had slashed APR’s 22-point lead to just three, setting the stage for an unforgettable final act.

Ferroviario’s defensive brilliance carried into the fourth quarter. Within two minutes, they racked up three steals, triggering a ferocious 10-0 run that turned a six-point deficit into a seven-point lead. APR, reeling under Ferroviario’s relentless pressure, struggled to find answers.

As Italee Lucas and Kierstan Bell fouled out, APR’s offensive firepower waned. Meanwhile, Ferroviario’s bench came alive, outscoring their counterparts 20-0. Mucauro, a defensive maestro, added seven steals and as many assists, orchestrating transition plays that left APR scrambling. APR’s struggles from beyond the arc compounded their woes, as Ferroviario locked down the perimeter and dominated the paint. By the time the final buzzer sounded, the Mozambican side had completely flipped the script.

Anabela Cossa’s historic shooting performance earned her a standing ovation, but this victory was a collective masterpiece. Destiny Pitts’ clutch shooting, Mucauro’s defensive brilliance, and the bench’s unparalleled contribution highlighted Ferroviario’s depth and unity. Coach Charles Mushumba summed it up perfectly, attributing their success to their dominance in second-chance points (19-2) and paint scoring (32-16).

I am happy my players stayed confident and fought to come back. Now that we are in the Final, we know it will be a different game and the approach will be different. We, however will take our rest and come back prepared for Al Ahly." Nasir Salé  head coach for Ferroviario de Maputo .

With this remarkable victory, Ferroviario de Maputo stands one win away from their third African title. The last time they triumphed, Ingvild Mucauro was named MVP, a feat she looks poised to replicate. As the team gears up for the WBLA Final, their semifinal performance serves as a reminder: Ferroviario isn’t just a team, they’re a dynasty in the making. In Maputo, the dream of another championship shines brighter than ever.

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[Photography / Imagery Courtesy of FIBA]

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