Nigeria Stays Alive! D'Tigers Beat Libya to Keep AfroBasket Hopes Alive

Nigeria Stays Alive! West Africans Defeat Libya to Keep AfroBasket Qualification Hopes Alive

Nigeria fought with their backs against the wall and came out victorious, securing a much-needed 75-70 win over Libya in front of a hostile crowd at the Grand Hall. The victory not only avenged their previous 89-82 loss to Libya in Tunisia but also kept their slim hopes of qualifying for the 2025 FIBA Men's AfroBasket alive.

It was a high-pressure contest for Nigeria, as anything less than a win would have eliminated them from the qualification race. Despite a shaky start, the proud West Africans showed resilience, executing in the second half when it mattered most. Their ball movement was a bright spot, as they recorded 19 team assists, and their free throw shooting (80%) was a key factor in holding off Libya's late-game push.

The opening quarter was a sluggish affair, with both teams struggling offensively. Libya edged ahead 15-14 after the first ten minutes, and Nigeria's struggles continued into the second quarter. Despite only putting up 18 points in the period, Nigeria managed to keep the game within reach, trailing 35-32 at halftime. However, their 18 turnovers throughout the game could have proven costly, as Libya capitalized by scoring 24 points off those mistakes.

Nigeria's defense turned up the intensity in the third quarter, limiting Libya to just 16 points while finding their offensive rhythm. By the end of the period, Nigeria had clawed their way to a slim 52-51 lead. The momentum shift was evident, and they carried that into the final quarter, where Caleb Agada emerged as the difference-maker.

Agada, who finished with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, opened the fourth quarter with a three-pointer to extend Nigeria's lead to 55-51. Libya responded with back-to-back triples and a floater, reclaiming the lead at 57-55. But the Nigerians, known for their pride and fighting spirit, answered right back. Agada and Ugo Simon hit consecutive three-pointers, swinging the lead back in Nigeria's favor at 61-60 with just over five minutes to play.

Agada wasn't done. He followed up with a floater to give Nigeria a three-point cushion, then buried another clutch three-pointer with 3:23 remaining, pushing the lead to 68-62. With just over a minute left, Nigeria extended their advantage to nine points, but Libya fought back, refusing to let their home fans down. However, Nigeria held their nerve in the closing moments, sealing the much-needed 75-70 victory.

Libya's poor three-point shooting (13.5%) was a major factor in their downfall, as they struggled to capitalize on open looks. Their free throw shooting was also disappointing (50%), leaving crucial points at the line. While Libya fought hard in the paint, scoring 40 points inside compared to Nigeria's 28, their inefficiency from deep proved costly.

Despite Nigeria's victory, concerns remain. Their first-half struggles and 18 turnovers nearly cost them the game, and they cannot afford such lapses in their remaining matchups. However, with their AfroBasket hopes still alive, the West Africans will take confidence from this gutsy win as they prepare for their next challenge.

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[Photography Courtesy of FIBA]