The stage is set for a monumental showdown as Nigeria's D'Tigress, the reigning African champions, prepare to face their fierce rivals, Senegal, in a highly anticipated semi-final clash at the FIBA Women's AfroBasket 2025. The match, which will take place on Saturday, August 2nd, promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the continent's most dominant basketball nations.
D'Tigress, on a quest for a historic fifth consecutive AfroBasket title, have been in imperious form throughout the tournament. Their unbeaten streak in the competition now stands at an incredible 27 games, a testament to their decade-long dominance. The team secured their spot in the semi-finals with a commanding 83-47 victory over Cameroon, a performance that highlighted their depth and ruthless efficiency on the court.
Standing in their way is a formidable Senegalese side, who are also looking to make history. Senegal, the most decorated team in the tournament's history, booked their place in the final four by stunning the host nation, Côte d'Ivoire. Their determination to reclaim continental glory is palpable, and they will be looking to dethrone the Nigerian champions.
The semi-final carries an added layer of intrigue with the presence of Otis Hughley Jr. on the Senegalese bench. Hughley, the former head coach of D'Tigress, led Nigeria to three AfroBasket titles and an Olympic appearance. His intimate knowledge of the Nigerian players and their system adds a fascinating tactical dimension to the rivalry.
Both teams come into the game with a lot at stake. For D'Tigress, a victory would move them one step closer to an unprecedented fifth title, solidifying their legacy as the greatest women's basketball team in African history. For Senegal, it is a chance to end Nigeria's reign and reassert their position at the pinnacle of African basketball.
The winner of this high-stakes semi-final will advance to the championship final to face the victor of the other semi-final between Mali and South Sudan. The match is scheduled for a 7:00 PM local time tip-off at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan. Fans can expect a physical, emotional, and fiercely competitive battle as these two giants of African basketball go head-to-head for a spot in the final.