D’Tigress on Sunday qualified for the quarterfinal of the women’s basketball event at the Paris Olympics after defeating the world No. 5 ranked team, Canada, with a score of 79-70 in their final group game at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Lille, France.
Having previously beaten the world No. 3 team, Australia, and lost to the host, France, the victory against Canada marks a historic achievement for the Nigerian team, earning them their first-ever appearance in the quarterfinals of an Olympic basketball tournament.
D’Tigress arrived at the Summer Games as the lowest-ranked team (12th), but have now reached the last eight of the tournament after two major upsets. Nigeria coach, Rene Wakama, had expressed confidence ahead of the encounter with Canada.
“While we are disappointed with the result against France, we are motivated to put in a strong performance against Canada,” Wakama said before the game. “A win will ensure our place in the next round.”
The victory not only secured their spot in the quarterfinals but also showcased the team’s resilience and determination against higher-ranked opponents.
