Nigeria Edge Côte d’Ivoire to Reach U18 Women’s AfroBasket Final

Nigeria’s U18 women’s basketball team have secured a place in the final of the 2026 FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket after edging hosts Côte d’Ivoire 53-50 in a thrilling semi-final encounter.

The Nigerian girls made a strong start at the Palais des Sports de Treichville, taking a narrow 12-11 lead at the end of the opening quarter before extending their advantage to 27-23 at halftime.

Côte d’Ivoire responded strongly in the third quarter, outscoring Nigeria 16-14 to reduce the deficit, setting up a tense final period.

Nigeria held their nerve in the fourth quarter, scoring 12 points against the hosts’ 11 to preserve their three-point advantage and seal a hard-fought victory.

Zainab Adelaja was Nigeria’s leading scorer with 14 points, while Côte d’Ivoire’s Salimata Kone finished as her team’s top scorer with 12 points.

The victory sends Nigeria into the championship match as they continue their quest for continental glory at the U18 Women’s AfroBasket.