D'Tigers lose to Cameroon in FIBA World Cup qualifiers

Nigeria's D'Tigers began the second round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 African Qualifiers with a disappointing 78-62 loss to Cameroon in Radès, Tunisia. The defeat puts immediate pressure on the team's World Cup aspirations.

Cameroon's Yves Missi was the dominant force in the game, delivering a standout performance with 24 points, nine rebounds, and four blocks. His efficiency from the field and at the free-throw line, coupled with impactful dunks, propelled Cameroon to a comfortable victory. The decisive momentum shift occurred in the first quarter, where Cameroon established a lead they never relinquished.

Despite a strong start from Nigeria, their composure faltered midway through the first quarter. Cameroon capitalized, building a significant lead that Nigeria struggled to overcome. While D'Tigers managed to tie the second quarter, Cameroon consistently outscored them in the latter half, securing a 16-point win.

This loss places D'Tigers in a challenging position in Group E, currently fourth with 11 points. Cameroon and South Sudan occupy the top two automatic qualifying spots. Nigeria faces South Sudan next, a crucial game to keep their World Cup hopes alive and potentially improve their chances for a FIBA pre-Olympic qualifying tournament berth.