Game Report: Despite Arafan Diane's impressive 23-point, 18-rebound double-double, Guinea fell short in a closely contested game. Diane's stellar performance highlighted the young team's potential, but Germany's resilience secured their victory in this intense FIBA U17 World Cup showdown.
Last Updated on
July 6, 2024
Fanya Nkengasong
Staff Writer
After being defeated by Spain 77-55 in the Round of 16, Guinea faced Germany in the classification game for the 9th-16th places in the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup.
Germany, led by Dirk Bauermann—a familiar figure in African basketball who coached the Tunisian Senior Men's team to an African Championship in 2021—posed a significant challenge.
Arafan Diane shone brightly in the first quarter, scoring 10 of Guinea's 19 points, although Germany narrowly led 20-19. By the middle of the second quarter, Germany had extended its lead to nine points, 32-21. Germany dominated the second period, winning it 26-12 and leading 46-31 at halftime. The Guinean team fought back valiantly, winning the third quarter 13-10 and reducing the deficit to 54-44. Despite trailing, they entered the final quarter with renewed confidence.
Regarding FIBA U17 rankings, Guinea is significantly behind the 10th-ranked Germany, while Guinea is 26th. Despite this, Guinea dominated the rebounds but struggled with outside shots. In contrast, Germany capitalised on counter-attacks, scoring 18 points in transition. Guinea closed the gap to just four points, trailing 60-54.
As the game neared its end, the score was tied at 63-63, creating a nail-biting finale. In the end, it was Germany who managed to edge ahead through free throws, leading 67-65, and secured the victory with a final score of 69-65.
Despite the loss, Guinea's performance was a clear indication of their potential. In their first participation, they fell short mainly due to inexperience, but their promising display leaves hope for their future in international basketball.
[Photography / Imagery Courtesy of FIBA]
