D’TIGERS READY FOR QUARTERFINAL CLASH.

The excitement builds as Nigeria’s D’Tigers prepare to face Senegal in the quarterfinal of the 2025 AfroBasket. This heavyweight matchup takes place on Wednesday afternoon. Senegal secured their place by defeating South Sudan 78–65 in the playoffs. They now set their sights on the D’Tigers, who topped Group B.

Senegal has a fabulous history in AfroBasket. They have won five championships (1968, 1972, 1978, 1980, 1997). They also boast six silver medals and five bronze medals. This year marks their 30th appearance in the tournament.

In contrast, Nigeria is making its 20th appearance. The D’Tigers won gold in 2015 and earned silver in 1997, 1999, 2003, and 2017. They also secured bronze in 1995, 2005, and 2011. The team has shown strong form, winning all their group matches against Madagascar (77–59), Tunisia (87–66), and Cameroon (99–90).

It’s no doubt that history favors Nigeria in this rivalry. The last knockout stage meeting occurred during the 2015 AfroBasket semifinal. D’Tigers narrowly defeated Senegal 88–79 in overtime. Nigeria went on to win their first championship by overcoming Angola in the final. All eyes are on Stan Okoye to bring his experience and leadership inorder to triumph over their West African rivals.

Both teams aim for a semifinal spot. The match also offers a chance for automatic qualification to the FIBA Basketball World Championship.

Sometime this year, Nigeria’s D’Tigress defeated Senegal in the Women’s AfroBasket semifinals before claiming the trophy.

Both squad are always making Nigeria proud in the basketball world.