Game Report: Egypt secures their first win at the fifth attempt, defeating Mali 55-52 to avenge last year's FIBA U16 Women's AfroBasket title game loss. Egypt's early lead and late-game heroics sealed the 9-16 classification game victory at the 2024 FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup.
Last Updated on
July 20, 2024
Kendi Mwiti
Staff Writer
Egypt celebrated their first victory in five attempts at the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup 2024, defeating Mali 55-52. This win served as sweet revenge for Egypt, who lost to Mali in the FIBA U16 Women's AfroBasket 2023 title game.
The two teams clashed in the 9-16 classification matches, with both sides eager to secure their first tournament win. Mali aimed for their second victory, having triumphed in their group-opening match against hosts Mexico.
Egypt started the game with a dominant 10-3 run in the opening four minutes, signalling their intent to end Mali's reign in the African derby. Mali, the U16 holders who have won the last eight titles, fought back to take a brief 15-13 lead. However, the first quarter ended in a 15-15 stalemate.
In the second quarter, Egypt edged ahead, leading 12-10 to take a slim advantage into halftime. Mali came within a point at 29-28 early in the third quarter, but Egypt's Hana Elgoly led a crucial 10-point run, extending their lead to 39-30. Egypt eventually won the third quarter 16-10, entering the final period with an eight-point cushion.
Mali mounted a fierce comeback in the fourth quarter, erasing a 48-38 deficit to tie the game at 50-50. Suzane Fatoumata Dembele's two-point turnaround jumper restored hope for Mali with 1:50 left. However, Mali's ball-handling faltered as Dembele's turnover allowed Khadiga Abouelghait to make a crucial steal. Yasmin Ahmed converted the opportunity, and Elgoly added another basket, securing the victory for Egypt.
Joudy Elbaz led Egypt with 14 points, while Malak Elhemaly recorded a double-double with 12 points and ten rebounds. Ahmed and Abouelghait combined for 26 rebounds, showcasing Egypt's board dominance.
With this victory, Egypt advances to face Croatia, while Mali will take on Argentina as the classification matches continue. The USA will face France in the semifinals, and Spain will play Canada.
This win marks a significant milestone for Egypt. It breaks their losing streak and sets a positive tone for their remaining matches in the tournament.
[Photography / Imagery Courtesy of FIBA]
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