D’Tigers Suffer Second Straight Loss as World Cup Hopes Fade
Nigeria’s D’Tigers suffered another setback in their bid to qualify for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup after falling 82–79 to South Sudan in a tense second-round qualifier in Radès, Tunisia, on Friday.
The defeat was Nigeria’s second consecutive loss in the current qualifying window, following a 78–62 defeat to Cameroon two days earlier. The back-to-back losses have put D’Tigers under significant pressure as they fight to remain in contention for one of Africa’s five places at the World Cup in Qatar.
South Sudan make fast start
South Sudan took control early, exploiting Nigeria’s slow start to build an 11-point advantage.
The Bright Stars produced a decisive 9–0 run late in the opening quarter, turning a 15–14 deficit into a 25–15 lead before finishing the period 30–19 ahead.
Nigeria responded strongly in the second quarter and gradually reduced the deficit. Caleb Agada sparked a 7–0 run that helped D’Tigers turn a 43–41 deficit into a 48–43 lead with 9:08 remaining in the third quarter.
However, South Sudan quickly regained their composure and restored control as the contest went down to the wire.
Late fightback falls short
D’Tigers remained within striking distance in the final quarter, with Josh Okogie tying the game at 70–70 with a three-pointer with just over seven minutes remaining.
South Sudan responded almost immediately through Wenyen Gabriel, who converted a hook shot to put the Bright Stars back in front.
Nigeria had an opportunity to force overtime in the final possession, but consecutive three-point attempts from Chimezie Metu and Okogie failed to fall, allowing South Sudan to escape with a three-point victory.
Okogie finished as Nigeria’s leading scorer with 14 points, eight rebounds and two assists. For South Sudan, Marial Shayok led all scorers with 19 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals, while Carlik Jones contributed 11 points, 12 assists and eight rebounds.
Qualification hopes under pressure
The latest defeat leaves Nigeria facing a difficult path in the race for the 2027 World Cup.
D’Tigers had entered the second round after successfully navigating the previous qualifying phase, including an 80–79 victory over Guinea and a commanding 106–62 win over Rwanda that secured their progression.
But the two losses in Radès have changed the outlook considerably. Nigeria must now respond quickly, with their next game against Cape Verde on Sunday becoming crucial to their campaign.
With only five African nations ultimately qualifying for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Qatar, every remaining game carries enormous significance.
D’Tigers will need a much more consistent performance from the opening tip if they are to keep their World Cup ambitions alive.
