Resilient Mali stun Senegal, join Cameroon in AfroBasket U18 final

In a gripping semi-final encounter that mirrored the intensity of the 2018 final, Mali emerged victorious over Senegal with a 68-68 win, overcoming a significant first-half deficit. This clash was more than just a game, it was a chance for revenge and redemption for Mali, who had previously bested Senegal in the Group phase with a score of 64-50.

From the tip-off, both teams showcased their readiness and determination. The game commenced with a tightly contested first quarter, as neither team could break free. With three minutes left in the quarter, the score was knotted at 8-8 and later 15-15. Senegal’s El Hadji Doudou Diahame then capitalized on a free throw to give the Lions Cubs a slim 16-15 lead.

Senegal began to assert their dominance, with Cheikh Biteye, Mane N’Faba, Kara Sene, and Ludovic d’Almeida extending their lead to 10 points with four minutes remaining in the first half. Mali, though, managed to close the gap slightly, only to see Senegal stretch their advantage to 14 points with three minutes left in the second quarter. By halftime, Senegal maintained a13-point lead, feeling confident as they headed into the break.

However, it was in the third quarter that Mali made their decisive move. Sekou Ousmane Bagayoko, with an electrifying performance, single-handedly ignited Mali’s comeback. Bagayoko delivered a dazzling display from beyond the arc, hitting six three-pointers and adding a layup to total 20 points for the quarter. His remarkable play, alongside Mali’s 24-7 run, turned the game on its head, giving Mali a four-point lead going into the final period.

With the momentum fully on their side, Mali needed to finish strong. They did so with a 13-9 run in the final quarter, securing a hard-fought victory. Bagayoko’s 24 points and six rebounds were pivotal, while Ibrahim Oumar Doumbia added 17 points to the cause. Youssouf Mamby Traore also made a significant impact with a double-double, registering 12 points and 18 rebounds.

Senegal’s efforts were led by Cheikh Biteye, who scored 16 points and grabbed two rebounds, while Ludovic d’Almeida and Kara Sene both contributed 11 points and three rebounds each. Despite their strong performances, Senegal fell short against Mali’s relentless comeback.
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Post-game, Mali’s Aly Tapo reflected on the team’s performance.

"In the first quarter, we couldn’t believe what was happening. Senegal beating us? It wasn’t real. In the second quarter, everybody was down, but we tried to keep up. But then we were down by 10 points and we got that fighting mentality. Now that we’re one win away from the title, we will give whatever we have to get that trophy, this I can promise.”

With this victory, Mali not only secured a spot in the final but also earned their place in the U19 World Cup 2025. As they look ahead to the championship game, the team’s resilience and determination will be key in their quest for the title.

[Photography / Imagery Courtesy of FIBA]

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