Nigeria’s D’Tigress suffered a setback in their Olympic campaign, falling 75-54 to host nation France on Thursday at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium. The defeat puts them in a must-win situation against Canada to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.
Head coach Rena Wakama opened the game with a starting lineup featuring Ezinne Kalu, Amy Okonkwo, Murjanatu Musa, Kunayi Akpanah-Pellas, and Elizabeth Balogun.
France jumped out to an early lead, capitalizing on Nigeria’s turnovers to build a nine-point advantage. However, D’Tigress rallied to close the gap, trailing 24-20 after the first quarter.
The French team continued their strong play into the second quarter, extending their lead behind the leadership of Gabby Williams. At halftime, Les Bleues held a comfortable seven-point advantage, 38-31.
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Nigeria struggled from the field, shooting 37% (11-of-30) compared to France’s 55% (17-of-31). Both teams forced turnovers – Nigeria with 13, France with 8.
The French restricted Nigeria to just eight points in the third quarter while they had 16 ending the quarter 54-39 with a commanding 15-point lead into the final quarter which was once again dominated by the French who outscored Nigeria 24-15 to win the 75-54.
Ezinne Kalu for the second consecutive game was the game’s highest scorer. She scored 18 points while Musa Murjanatu contributed 14 points. Amy Okonkwo had a forgettable game scoring just six points.
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