Nigeria record historic win over France

Afrobasket champions Nigeria beat France 67–65 in their second game of the FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifying tournament in Belgrade on Friday.

Victoria Macaulay scored a game high 19 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 5 steals and 2 blocks for the D’Tigress.

Oderah Chidom added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists while Promise Amukamara and Adaora Elonu both contributed 10 points each in the game.

The Dtigress shook up a 20 point deficit in the second quarter 11–31 to 11 points (27–38) at half time.

Just when France were headed for the fourth quarter with a 7 point lead, Promise Amukamara shot a three pointer from half court at the buzzer (48–52).

Victoria Macaulay made a jumper with 8 minutes remaining to tie the game 54–54.

From there on it was a pendulum affair from both teams which resulted to different lead changes.

With 17 seconds remaining, the D’Tigress led by 2 after Macaulay had shot from behind the arc.

France called a time out to break Nigeria’s momentum and a possible turn around in the game but Nigeria held on for a historic win against number five ranked France and boost their chance of qualifying for the World Cup taking place in Australia.

Nigeria shot 5/14 from deep and 14 of 20 from the free throw line.

Marine Johannes, Alexia Chartereau and Sara Chevaugeon combined for 40 points for France.

Nigeria will play against Mali in their third group game on Sunday.