Game Report: Cote d’Ivoire Outlast Egypt, 79-76 to Maintain Unbeaten Record

Game Report: Cote d’Ivoire Outlast Egypt, 79-76 to Maintain Unbeaten Record

The highly anticipated Group D clash between host nation Egypt and reigning AfroBasket silver medalist Cote d'Ivoire lived up to its billing, providing fans with an intense and thrilling game. Considered one of the marquee games of the Game Day 3 schedule, this match lived up to its expectations by delivering high-level African Basketball. In the end, Cote d'Ivoire secured a crucial 79-76 victory, leaving the Egyptian fans disheartened as they left the arena.

The game began with both teams trading leads back and forth, making it clear that the outcome was far from certain. However, towards the end of the first half, Cote d'Ivoire surged ahead, establishing a significant 46-35 lead with just a few minutes remaining in the second quarter.

However, a late Egyptian rally led by Amr Gendy and a clutch three-pointer from Patrick Gardener helped narrow the deficit. As the halftime buzzer sounded, the score stood at 46-40, setting the stage for an exciting second half.

Gendy, who emerged as one of Egypt's key players, delivered an impressive double-double performance, notching 30 points and dishing out ten assists. However, despite his stellar performance, a crucial turnover in the closing moments proved costly for Egypt. Cote d'Ivoire capitalised on the opportunity, sealing the victory with a buzzer-beater and securing a three-point win.

In a pivotal moment, with Cote d'Ivoire holding a narrow one-basket lead at 77-76, Gendy took control of the ball. Despite his impressive performance on the court, he hesitated, resulting in a turnover. Nisre Zouzoua seized the opportunity, quickly racing down the court for a layup. After a video review confirmed the basket, Cote d'Ivoire secured victory over Egypt on their home court.

"To witness such a captivating game necessitates an adversary as formidable as Egypt was. Commendations to them for stretching our capabilities and showcasing their prowess," expressed Cote d'Ivoire coach John Douaglin after the intense matchup.

After a tied first quarter at 26 points each, Cote d'Ivoire seized control in the second, outscoring their opponents 20-14. The hosts continued their momentum with an 18-15 advantage in the third quarter, maintaining a narrow lead going into the final period. Despite a tied score of 18 points apiece in the fourth quarter, Cote d'Ivoire emerged victorious.

Douaglin's squad dominated in the paint, leading 32-24, whilst capitalising on second-chance opportunities with a 21-7 advantage. They also outpaced Egypt 12-6 in fast-break points. Egyptian substitutes contributed 36 points compared to the opponent's 33, with both teams equally matched at 15 points each from turnovers.

"We foresaw a strenuous test in the encounter, and I am gratified that we stood firm even under duress to clinch this victory. The most significant takeaway from this window is the imperative of sustaining are silent spirit. We have evolved with each match, and I firmly believe our never surrender' mentality played a pivotal role in securing the three wins," articulated skipper Cédric Bah following the fierce contest.

Conversely, Egypt coach Henrik Rödl expressed contentment with his squad's performance, underscoring that their showing against the silver medalists was laudable, especially given the absence of key players, including Anas Mahmoud, who suffered an injury moments before the final whistle.

"While it is disheartening to concede the match and in such a manner, it presents a foundation to build upon as we approach the subsequent phase of qualification," Rödl remarked.