Mali Overpowers South Sudan to Set Up 2025 AfroBasket Final Showdown with D'Tigress

Mali Overpowers South Sudan to Set Up 2025 AfroBasket Final Showdown with D'Tigress 

By Niyi Busari 

 Mali booked their place in the final of the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket after a commanding 76–50 victory over tournament debutants South Sudan, setting the stage for a highly anticipated clash against defending champions Nigeria’s D’Tigress, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

It is a return to familiar territory for Mali, who are eyeing their second AfroBasket title and a first since their historic triumph in 2007. The West Africans have appeared in two other finals since then—2009 and 2021—but fell short on both occasions, including a loss to Nigeria four years ago.

This year’s final offers Mali a shot at redemption and a chance to end Nigeria’s dominance, with D’Tigress chasing a record fifth consecutive title and sixth overall. The winner will also clinch automatic qualification for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin.

Game Summary:

Mali stamped their authority early, unlike their tightly contested group-stage encounter with South Sudan. After a cautious first few minutes, they exploded to a 29–8 lead by the end of the first quarter, setting the tone for the rest of the game.

By halftime, Mali had built an insurmountable 31-point lead, allowing head coach Oumarou Sidiya to rotate his squad extensively in the second half and rest key starters.

Though South Sudan improved after the break, the damage had been done.

Team Effort Behind Mali’s Victory:

In a match where no single player dominated, Mali’s balanced team performance stood out. Sira Thienou led the scoring with 14 points, while Djeneba N’Diaye and Alima Dembele added 13 and 11, respectively.

While Foune Sissoko didn’t score, she made her mark with a team-high five assists and one steal, showcasing the depth and collective strength of Mali’s roster.

South Sudan’s Impressive Debut:

Despite the loss, South Sudan has emerged from this tournament with heads held high. Entering as underdogs via a wildcard, they shocked many with their spirited performances—especially during their first encounter against Mali, where they nearly pulled off a major upset.

Their campaign ends with a place in the 2026 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, and if past trends continue, a likely return to the 2027 AfroBasket as one of Africa’s rising forces.

Final Showdown: Mali vs Nigeria

Mali now prepares to face Nigeria, a team unbeaten in AfroBasket competition since October 2015. D’Tigress, fresh off a semifinal win over Senegal, are chasing history with hopes of becoming the first team to claim five straight continental titles.

Sunday’s (today's) final promises to be a battle of will, history, and ambition—Mali’s pursuit of gold after an 18-year drought vs Nigeria’s quest for unprecedented dominance.