Game Report: In a fierce Elite 16 matchup, Stade Malien crushed Moanda Basket’s semi-final hopes with a decisive 79-53 win. Dominating defensively, Stade Malien forced turnovers and blocked shots, while Mahamane Coulibaly led scoring with 14 points.
Last Updated on
November 9, 2024
In a highly anticipated matchup , Stade Malien proved their mettle, securing a decisive 79-53 victory over Moanda Basket in what was truly a defensive battle. While both teams displayed impressive athleticism, it was Stade Malien’s relentless teamwork and strategic plays that ultimately carved their path to victory. With three players scoring in double figures, the Malian squad sent a clear message about the power of collective effort.
From the start, Stade Malien established their dominance through disciplined defense, challenging every shot and forcing Moanda Basket to struggle for every point. The game was marked by fierce defensive stands on both sides, but the Gabonese squad found themselves hampered by a string of missed opportunities and turnovers, which chipped away at their confidence as the match progressed.
Leading the charge for Stade Malien was Mahamane Coulibaly, who led his team with 14 points, setting the tone with his energy on both ends of the floor. Ibrahim Djambo was right behind, adding 13 points with sharp shooting and clutch playmaking, while Abdramane Kanoute chipped in with 12 points, demonstrating remarkable accuracy and finesse. N'faly Kanoute added an important 10 points to round out the balanced effort, showing that this victory was far from a one-man show.
On the Gabonese side, Moanda Basket struggled to find consistent scoring threats. Darcy Makambo tried to rally his team with a team-high 10 points, the only Moanda player to reach double digits. Despite his efforts, the lack of offensive production took a toll, as the team’s confidence visibly waned against Stade Malien’s defensive wall.
Ultimately, this game was a testament to the discipline and cohesion of Stade Malien, whose ability to rely on multiple scorers and a tight defensive structure overwhelmed their opponents. For Moanda Basket, this loss will serve as a tough lesson on the importance of offensive balance and consistency when facing top-tier teams.
As the tournament progresses, Stade Malien have clearly established themselves in the semi-finals, proving that hard work and unity on the court can make all the difference in high-stakes matchups.
[Photography / Imagery Courtesy of FIBA]
