Nigeria’s D’Tigers opened their 2027 FIBA World Cup African qualifiers campaign with a spirited performance but ultimately fell 78–88 to hosts Tunisia in a gripping overtime clash on Thursday night in Rades.
It was a contest that delivered everything—momentum swings, high-intensity defense, clutch shooting, and a dramatic finish.
Nigeria came out with intent, edging the first quarter 15–12 and setting the tone early. But Tunisia regrouped quickly, using a strong second-quarter surge to wrest control and head into the break with a narrow advantage.
The D’Tigers showed resilience after halftime, clawing their way back into the game with a superb third-quarter push.
The fourth quarter turned into a tense, basket-for-basket affair, with neither side giving an inch.
At the buzzer, the scoreboard read 73–73, sending the packed arena into a frenzy and the game into overtime.
Unfortunately for Nigeria, the extra five minutes belonged to Tunisia.
Backed by their home crowd, the hosts displayed composure and precision, outscoring Nigeria 15–5 to secure a hard-fought 10-point victory.
Scoring Breakdown
Q1: Nigeria 15–12 Tunisia
Q2: Nigeria 17–23 Tunisia
Q3: Nigeria 21–18 Tunisia
Q4: Nigeria 20–20 Tunisia
OT: Nigeria 5–15 Tunisia
Final: Nigeria 78–88 Tunisia
Talib Zanna was Nigeria’s standout performer, contributing 22 points and eight rebounds in a tireless display.
Tunisia’s Abada stole the spotlight on the other end, pouring in 29 points to lead all scorers and guide the hosts to victory.
The loss leaves Nigeria with work to do, but the qualifiers are only just beginning.
The D’Tigers turn their attention to upcoming matchups against Rwanda and Guinea as they aim to regain momentum on the road to the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
