Ferroviario de Maputo defeat Jeanne d'Arc to reach fourth consecutive semis

‍

‍

Ferroviario de Maputo stormed into the semifinals of the 2024 Women’s Basketball League Africa (WBLA) with a commanding 65-44 victory over Senegal’s Jeanne D’Arc. The clash was a rematch of their group-stage encounter, which the Mozambican giants had won decisively, 64-30. Once again, Jeanne D’Arc found no answers to the relentless precision and experience of the two-time titleholders.

Stefania Chiziane put on a clinical display, leading Ferroviario’s charge with 20 points on an efficient 6-of-13 shooting. Complementing her efforts was Ingvild Mucauro, who posted a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds, along with three assists and five steals. The duo’s combined brilliance under coach Nasir Sale propelled Ferroviario to their fourth consecutive victory in the competition, showcasing why they remain perennial contenders for the African crown.

Ferroviario set the tone early, outscoring Jeanne D’Arc 22-12 in the first quarter. While the Senegalese side clawed back with a spirited 14-8 second quarter to trail by just four at halftime, Ferroviario’s response was swift and decisive. A 7-0 run in the opening two minutes of the second half restored their double-digit lead, pushing the score to 37-26 and extinguishing any hopes of a Jeanne D’Arc comeback.

Ferroviario’s defensive intensity was evident, as they capitalized on Jeanne D’Arc’s 23 turnovers to score 18 points, compared to 12 points off Ferroviario’s 16 turnovers. Their ability to convert crucial opportunities, including 8-of-25 three-point shooting against Jeanne D’Arc’s meager three successful attempts, proved pivotal. Additionally, Ferroviario dominated second-chance points (19-8) and showcased their depth with a 29-15 advantage in bench scoring.

Mucauro’s all-around game and her efficiency rating of 18 underscored her value to the team. With her tenacity on both ends of the floor, she reinforced her role as a cornerstone of Ferroviario’s success. Meanwhile, Chiziane’s 20-point performance, coupled with her defensive contributions of four steals, provided the firepower Ferroviario needed to keep Jeanne D’Arc at bay.

The stakes are  rising for Ferroviario as they prepare to face APR, a star-studded team eager to secure their first African podium finish. For Jeanne D’Arc, whose participation came via a last-minute wildcard, the journey continues in the classification matches for 5th-8th place, where they’ll seek to leave their mark on the tournament.

Ferroviario’s march to glory remains on course, and their semi final matchup promises to be an electrifying contest.

[Photography  Imagery Courtesy of FIBA]

‍