Mali booked their place in the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket after a commanding 76–50 victory over tournament debutants South Sudan, setting the stage for a highly anticipated clash against defending champions Nigeria’s D’Tigress.
It is a return to familiar territory for Mali, who are eyeing their second AfroBasket title and a first since their historic triumph in 2007. The West Africans have appeared in two other finals since then—2009 and 2021—but fell short on both occasions, including a loss to Nigeria four years ago.
This year’s final offers Mali a shot at redemption and a chance to end Nigeria’s dominance, with D’Tigress chasing a record fifth consecutive title and sixth overall. The winner will also clinch automatic qualification for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin.
Game Summary:
Mali stamped their authority early, unlike their tightly contested group-stage encounter with South Sudan. After a cautious first few minutes, they exploded to a 29–8 lead by the end of the first quarter, setting the tone for the rest of the game.
By halftime, Mali had built an insurmountable 31-point lead, allowing head coach Oumarou Sidiya to rotate his squad extensively in the second half and rest key starters.
Final Showdown: Mali vs Nigeria
Mali now prepares to face Nigeria, a team unbeaten in AfroBasket competition since October 2015. D’Tigress, fresh off a semifinal win over Senegal, are chasing history with hopes of becoming the first team to claim five straight continental titles.
Sunday’s (today’s) final promises to be a battle of will, history, and ambition—Mali’s pursuit of gold after an 18-year drought vs Nigeria’s quest for unprecedented dominance.
