Senegal secured a decisive 91-75 victory against Nigeria on Wednesday, ending the Super Eagles’ undefeated run in the 2025 AfroBasket quarterfinals. This marks Senegal’s fifth consecutive appearance in the tournament semifinals.
The opening quarter showcased an intense back-and-forth as both teams traded leads seven times. Nigeria initially led 24-23, but Senegal quickly shifted momentum in the second quarter. Jean Jacques Boissy hit a three-pointer on Senegal’s first possession, followed by Amar Sylla’s long-range shot, giving Senegal a 29-24 lead they never relinquished.
Senegal maintained control with a 13-5 run, forcing Nigeria to call a timeout, yet the momentum had already swung. By the third quarter, Senegal held a commanding 24-point lead, demonstrating tactical precision and relentless pressure.
Brancou Badio led the charge with a spectacular 32-point performance. The Valencia guard’s aggressive drives, accurate perimeter shooting, and overall versatility made him the standout performer. His display was undeniably MVP-worthy.
Jean Jacques Boissy, Senegal’s dynamic sixth man, added 21 points off the bench. Boissy continues to solidify his reputation as one of African basketball’s most impactful substitutes. His sharpshooting, converting five of ten three-point attempts, helped maintain Senegal’s dominance.
Stats Highlight Senegal’s Advantage
Senegal leveraged their height advantage effectively, out-rebounding Nigeria 53-35. The 24-point lead in the third quarter proved insurmountable, ending Nigeria’s title hopes despite their strong start to the tournament.
Senegal’s team talk after the first quarter proved pivotal. Boissy and Sylla exploited Nigeria’s defensive lapses, converting back-to-back three-pointers that effectively sealed the game. From that point, Senegal dictated the tempo and showcased their depth and cohesion.
Nigeria’s guard Ike Nwamu acknowledged the defeat, stating, “It hurts. We had high hopes; it was not our day. Senegal came out with more energy, and we were flat at the start. They deserved the win.” Head coach Mohamed Abdulrahman added, “We felt short tonight. Senegal earned this victory, and we will continue building our team identity.”
Looking Ahead
Senegal will face Mali in the semifinals, a team they previously defeated 80-70 in the group stage. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s remarkable 3-0 group stage record ends in disappointment, underscoring the importance of finishing strong in knockout matches.
Senegal’s consistent semifinal appearances, including this 2025 campaign, highlight the nation’s enduring basketball strength and strategic mastery on the African stage.
