Olushola Omogbehin
Nigeria’s senior men’s team, D’Tigers started their 2025 AfroBasket campaign in a dynamic way by defeating Madagascar 77-59 to record their first victory.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the team thrilled fans at the Pavilhão Multiusos de Luanda, Angola, with an all-round excellent display.
Dominating the first quarter with a score of 18-14 against their opponent, Madagascar fought back in the second quarter with 23-20 scores.
Nigeria regained their winning position at half time with a 38-37 points lead and stretched it further in the third quarter with 55-46. Eventually, D’Tigers won the game 77-59.
This was the second AfroBasket meeting between Nigeria and Madagascar since 2011. Then, too, D’Tigers triumphed, with Agada again scoring a game-high 22 points.
Stan Okoye (13 points), Captain Ike Nwamu (12) and Kaodirichi Akobundu (10) also played key roles in Nigeria’s success.
Sitraka Raharimanantoanina’s 20 points were crucial for Madagascar but could not prevent Nigeria’s dominant third-quarter performance.
