Senegal - Ivory Coast
In a room full and dedicated to their cause, the Lions paid cash for a failed start and persistent clumsiness (28 successful shots out of 76 attempts).
The first basket signed by Gora Camara was however launching a committed and spectacular meeting. But very quickly, the Elephants imposed their outside address: six prize shots converted in the first quarter against no Senegalese side. Immediate outcome: 28-14.
Senegal tried to tighten the lines in the second quarter, limiting the easy baskets without managing to reverse the momentum (48-37 at the break).
Upon returning from the locker room, the reaction was real. Ibou Faye’s interceptions, the impact of Ibou Dinako Badji and Boissy’s recovered address allowed the Lions to win the third quarter (25-18) and return to four lengths. The Marius Ndiaye ignites, momentum shifts.
But in the money-time, precipitation and ball losses sealed the fate of the match. Forced choices, poorly selected shots, inability to convert the highlights: Ivory Coast remained disciplined until the end.
The final score (90-80) sanctions less a deficit of intensity than a problem of structural efficiency. Before the next release, the staff will have to correct the selection of shots and the management of weak sequences.
DR Congo - Madagascar
In the other match of group B, the Democratic Republic of the Congo dominated Madagascar (87-79).
The Congolese started hard (12-2), imposing pace and aggressiveness. At the break, the lead seemed comfortable (45-32). But the Malagasy reacted to the return from the locker room, sticking back at 61-61 after the third quarter.
The difference was made in managing the last quarter. More lucid, the DRC managed to control the end of the game. Jonathan Jordan scored 19 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists. A founding victory in a pool that promises to be close.
Angola - Uganda
In group D, Angola sent a clear message by dominating Uganda (90-68).
The Palancas Negras controlled the first three quarters, imposing their defensive intensity and collective discipline. Selton Miguel (19 points) led the attack, while Childe Dundao – AfroBasket MVP – delivered a full performance.
On the Ugandan side, Deng Geu scored a double-double (17 points, 12 rebounds), while Nike Sibande scored their international debut (15 points, 7 assists).
Mali - Egypt
In Alexandria, Mali hit hard by defeating Egypt (86-77). Siriman Kanouté delivered a top notch performance with a triple-double, symbol of an aggressive and coherent Malian team in both rackets.
Next deadline for the Eagles: Uganda, Saturday, February 28 at 6 p.m.
The results of the 1st day
Group B
DR Congo 87-79 Madagascar
Senegal 80-90 Ivory Coast
Group D
Angola 90-68 Uganda
Mali 86-77 Egypt
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À propos de l'auteur
Philemon MBALE
Rédacteur sportif
Passionné de sport depuis toujours, partage avec vous les dernières actualités et analyses du monde sportif.