D’Tigress Start FIBA Women’s Qualifiers with Big Win Over Colombia
Nigeria’s D’Tigress opened their 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign with a commanding 70–37 victory over Colombia in Lyon, France, on Wednesday.
The match, held at Astroballe Arena, was the first-ever meeting between the two teams. Despite a competitive first half, the African champions pulled away after the break with a strong defensive display and team cohesion.
Coach Rena Wakama started the game with Amy Okonkwo, Elizabeth Balogun, Promise Amukamara, Murjanatu Musa, and Ezinne Kalu. Amukamara scored the first points for Nigeria, including a free throw and a lay-up, while Colombia’s Mabel Martinez responded with a three-pointer to keep her team in the game early on.
Nigeria led 18–12 after the first quarter, and although Colombia narrowed the gap in the second quarter, the D’Tigress went into half-time with a 34–29 lead.
The third quarter saw Nigeria take control, limiting Colombia to just five points and building a 53–34 advantage. In the final period, the D’Tigress maintained intensity, adding 17 points while holding Colombia to three, sealing a 33-point triumph.
Victoria Macaulay starred with 13 points and six rebounds in just 14 minutes, earning Player of the Match honours. Nicole Enabosi contributed a double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds, while Ifunnaya Okoro added 10 points.
Nigeria dominated the boards 51–31, shot 40.6% from the field, and recorded 23 assists, showing excellent teamwork and defensive discipline.
The D’Tigress will now focus on their next Group D match against South Korea on 12 March, continuing their campaign toward the FIBA Women’s World Cup in Berlin.
