Game Report: Cote d’Ivoire kicked off their 2025 AfroBasket qualifying campaign the right way by claiming a 77-69 victory over a very pugnacious Madagascar at the Hassan Moustafa Sports Hall in Cairo. The Elephants, 2021 AfroBasket silver medalists, showed what they were made of when it mattered the most.
Last Updated on
February 24, 2024
Jonathan Oriant
Staff Writer
Cote d’Ivoire tipped off their 2025 AfroBasket qualifying campaign the right way by claiming a 77-69 Group D victory over a very pugnacious Madagascar at the Hassan Moustafa Sports Hall in Cairo. The Elephants, 2021 AfroBasket silver medalists, showed what they were made of when it mattered the most.
The stakes were high as both teams aim to make a statement in the tournament. The game unfolded as a strategic showdown, with Cote d'Ivoire and Madagascar, eager to bounce back after missing FIBA's 20121 AfroBasket tournament, taking center stage. It was a contest no one could afford to lose, and Cote d'Ivoire ensured they walked away with the win.
Key to their victory was the standout performance of Euroleague and Olimpia Milano star Alexander Poythress, who put on an MVP display. Poythress's impressive stat line included 26 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 blocks, and 4 assists. His contributions proved vital in securing Cote d'Ivoire's early lead and eventual triumph.
Cote d'Ivoire set the tone from the start, grabbing an early lead. The opening quarter saw both teams cautious, but the Elephants finished with a 3-point advantage (14-11). Their dominance continued into halftime, showcasing strong skills on both ends of the floor and securing a 26-19 lead.
Despite the halftime deficit, Madagascar returned to the court with pride and determination. Sitraka Raharimanantoanina emerged as the go-to player, contributing crucial points to fuel a comeback. By the end of the third quarter, Madagascar managed to win the period 22-21, cutting the lead to 8 points (60-52).
Madagascar, at times, narrowed the gap to just three points, displaying resilience on the court. However, Cote d'Ivoire responded with persistent attacks. Rija Lahontan, Elly Randriamampionona, and ALM Évreux Basket player Sitraka Raharimanantoanina led Madagascar's charge, finishing the last quarter with a one-point advantage(17-16). Yet, it was not enough to overcome Cote d'Ivoire, who secured the victory 77-69.
Interestingly, Madagascar boasted more players with double-digit scores, with Raharimanantoanina leading the team with 12 points, Anthony Nelson Severin Rasolomanana and Monja Romain Faralahy adding 11 each. In contrast, only Jean-Philippe Dally and Poythress reached double digits for Cote d'Ivoire.
As the final buzzer echoed through the arena, Cote d'Ivoire celebrated their hard-fought victory. Looking ahead, Madagascar faces a crucial match against Egypt, already shaping up to be a do-or-die game for the Ankoay. The AfroBasket Qualifying tournament continues to unfold, with each game bringing forth its own set of challenges and triumphs on the court…
[Photo Credit: FIBA]
