D’Tigers’ World Cup Hopes Fade After Damaging Defeat to South Sudan
Nigeria’s D’Tigers suffered a damaging 82-79 defeat to South Sudan on Friday, further denting their hopes of securing a place at the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
The closely fought Group E encounter marked Nigeria’s second successive defeat in the second round, after they were beaten by Cameroon in their previous outing.
D’Tigers endured a difficult opening quarter, falling 30-19 behind as South Sudan established early control.
Nigeria responded impressively in the second quarter, outscoring the hosts 27-13 to take a 46-43 lead into halftime.
South Sudan regained the initiative in the third quarter, edging Nigeria 21-15 to move into the final period with a 64-61 advantage.
Nigeria matched South Sudan 18-18 in the fourth quarter but could not produce the decisive plays needed to overturn the deficit, as the hosts held on for a three-point victory.
Chima Moneke led Nigeria’s scoring with 17 points and added two rebounds, while Josh Okogie contributed 14 points and eight rebounds. Ethan Izundu scored 12 points and grabbed six rebounds, with Caleb Agada adding 10 points.
For South Sudan, Makuol Shayok top-scored with 19 points, six rebounds and four assists.
Nuni Omot finished with 13 points and four rebounds, while Carl Jones delivered an outstanding playmaking performance with 11 points and 12 assists.
The defeat leaves Nigeria fifth in Group E with 12 points from eight matches, having recorded four wins and four defeats.
South Sudan lead the group with 14 points, followed by Guinea and Cameroon on 13 points each. Tunisia are fourth on 12 points, while Cape Verde are sixth with 11 points.
The first phase of the second round will conclude on Sunday, with Nigeria needing a strong finish in the remaining fixtures to revive their World Cup qualification campaign.
D’Tigers’ latest setback means the margin for error has become increasingly slim as the race for the World Cup places intensifies.
