International Friendly: Türkiye Pips D’Tigress

International Friendly: Türkiye Pips D’Tigress

Sampson Adedeji

African champions D’Tigress narrowly lost 77–76 to Türkiye in a fiercely contested international friendly played on Friday in Istanbul, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Nigerian side started the encounter brightly, showing the confidence and rhythm that have defined their recent dominance on the continent. D’Tigress took control early, edging the first quarter 15–14 before extending their lead with an impressive 30–25 performance in the second quarter to head into halftime with a six-point advantage.

However, the hosts returned from the break with renewed intensity. Türkiye tightened their defence and capitalized on turnovers, outscoring Nigeria 22–12 in the third quarter to swing momentum in their favour. 

Despite a spirited fightback by D’Tigress in the final stretch, Türkiye managed to hold on, clinching the last quarter 19–16 to seal a dramatic one–point victory.

The friendly match forms part of Nigeria’s preparations for upcoming international engagements, and despite the narrow defeat, the team showed strong tactical discipline and depth.

D’Tigress will continue their training and are expected to line up more competitive matches as they fine-tune for future tournaments.