Game Report: In a gripping start to the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket qualifiers, Nigeria crumbled in an overtime defeat against Libya in their Group B debut, setting the stage for a thrilling tournament and a difficult read ahead for the D'Tigers.
Last Updated on
February 26, 2024
Elango Mbotona
Staff Writer
Following their well publicised funding issues, the D'Tigers stumbled into the qualifying tournament with a heartbreaking overtime loss against the well-prepared Libyan nation team. Despite their efforts, Nigeria faltered in the face of Libya's determined performance, marking a challenging start to their journey in the qualifiers for the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket.
Nigeria faced a challenging start, arriving just hours before their game against Libya. By the end of the first period, Libya had established an eight-point lead (16-25), capitalising on every opportunity. Libya's energy surged in the second period, allowing them to maintain their lead throughout.
Despite arriving late, the D'Tigers didn't lose hope and rallied during the second period. They managed to narrow the deficit to 35-40 by halftime. It was evident that the team showed remarkable resilience, considering the circumstances of their arrival mere hours before the game. Their unwavering determination paid off as they managed to turn the tide and secure a victory.
IIn the second half, Nigeria maintained their scoring momentum into the third period, narrowing the margin but still trailing by 10 points against D'Tigers. However, in the final three minutes of the game, Nigeria intensified their efforts and managed to tie the score at 71-71 with a crucial layup from Micheal Afuwape.
The game remained neck and neck until the end of the fourth quarter, resulting in a tie at 75-75 and pushing the match into five minutes of overtime. Nigeria showed signs of fatigue, missing shots and free throws, while Libya capitalised on their opportunities with easy layups. Ultimately, it was a successful Game One for the Libyan team.
Despite an impressive performance by Nigeria’s Mike Nuga, who scored 31 points, grabbed eight rebounds, and dished out five assists, it wasn’t enough to secure a victory for D’Tigers as they fell short with a final score of 82-89.
Meanwhile, Mohamed Sadi delivered an outstanding double-double performance for Libya, scoring 24 points, pulling down nine rebounds, and tallying 12 assists, leading his country to victory in a thrilling match.
