World number three-ranked France women’s national basketball team defeated reigning African champions D’Tigress 93–86 in a Group A clash at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament in Villeurbanne.
The hosts controlled the contest from start to finish at the Astroballe Arena on Sunday, establishing an early lead and maintaining their advantage throughout the closely contested encounter.
Despite trailing for most of the game, Nigeria mounted a spirited comeback in the third quarter, reducing the deficit significantly. However, France held their composure in the final period to protect their lead and secure the victory.
France prevented any lead change during the game, ensuring Nigeria never went ahead.
Janelle Salaun led the French side with 19 points and five rebounds, shooting six of nine from the field and four of seven from three-point range in nearly 30 minutes. Valeriane Ayayi added 12 points and six rebounds, finishing with a team-best plus-12 rating while contributing at both ends of the floor.
For Nigeria, Elizabeth Balogun delivered a strong performance with 15 points, eight rebounds, and three assists in almost 35 minutes, providing momentum during the team’s best spell.
France seized control with a decisive 9–0 run late in the second quarter, stretching their lead from 45–35 to 54–35. Nigeria responded with a 12–0 run spanning the end of the second quarter and the start of the third, cutting the deficit from 57–38 to 57–50, with Balogun scoring five points during that stretch.
The hosts had earlier built the game’s largest lead of 19 points twice in the second quarter, first at 54–35 and again at 57–38.
France led for 39 minutes and 42 seconds of the match, highlighting their dominance from the opening tip-off. Nigeria never led during the game, while the scores were tied for only 18 seconds.
In the final 55 seconds, France outscored Nigeria 4–0 to seal the win, converting two baskets, securing key rebounds and committing no turnovers, while Nigeria missed their only field goal attempt and two free throws in the closing moments.
