2023 FIBA AfroCAN: D’Tigers rout Benin Republic in second game
Nigeria record first win of tournament
Nigeria’s D’Tigers overcame neighbours Benin Republic 78-51 in their second game at the ongoing FIBA AfroCAN tournament in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire.
Having lost their opener against Guinea, Nigeria were keen to bounce back against minnows Benin Republic but were shocked in the first quarter as their West African counterparts flew out of the blocks.
Benin Republic dominated the opening period and ended the first quarter with a 15-10 lead, severely restricting the D’Tigers attacking game.
The second quarter started with Benin Republic racing into a ten-point lead before the D’Tigers rallied and established their dominance in the encounter, taking a 42-27 lead into half-time.
The Nigerian team continued to pummel their opponents in the third quarter, extending their lead to 61-38 as Benin Republic looked out of their depth.
The job was completed in the fourth quarter, with the D’Tigers finishing the game with a flourish and claiming a vital 78-51 win.
Victor Ezeh scored 21 points and Ibe Agu scored 13 points for the D’Tigers as they coasted to the win. They will continue their campaign against hosts Cote d’Ivoire on Sunday.
