Nigeria, Colombia Clash As Women’s World Cup Qualifiers Begin Today

Nigeria, Colombia Clash As Women’s World Cup Qualifiers Begin Today 

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team, Nigeria women's national basketball team, popularly known as D’Tigress, will begin their campaign at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament with an opening-day clash against Colombia women's national basketball team on Wednesday in Lyon and Villeurbanne, France, BSNSports.com..ng reports.

The tournament tips off with several high-profile fixtures, but Nigeria’s encounter with Colombia is expected to be one of the standout matches of the opening day as both teams look to build early momentum in a competitive group.

D’Tigress head into the contest eager to assert their dominance against the South Americans and set the tone for the rest of the competition. Despite already securing qualification for the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup, the African champions will be keen to begin the tournament with a convincing performance.

Head coach Rena Wakama is expected to rely on a blend of experienced players and emerging talents as Nigeria seek to impose their trademark physicality, fast pace and attacking style on their opponents.

Colombia, however, are likely to pose a serious challenge. Known for their disciplined structure and technical approach, the South American side will aim to control the tempo of the game while capitalising on any defensive lapses from the Nigerians.

While the Nigeria-Colombia clash headlines the opening round of fixtures, attention will also turn to other key games in the group.

Germany women's national basketball team, who have also secured qualification for the World Cup, will face South Korea women's national basketball team, while tournament hosts France women's national basketball team, silver medallists at the Olympic Games, will take on the Philippines women's national basketball team.

Results from the opening day could play a crucial role in shaping the early standings and momentum within the group as teams battle for positioning in the qualifying tournament.