France Hold Off D’Tigress 93–86 in Qualifier Clash

France Maintain Control from Tip-Off

WORLD No. 3 France women’s national basketball team secured a hard-fought 93–86 victory over reigning African champions D’Tigress in their Group A encounter at the FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament in Villeurbanne.

Playing at the Astroballe Arena, the hosts established early dominance and maintained their lead throughout the contest, never allowing Nigeria to take control at any stage.

Second-Quarter Surge Proves Decisive

France’s grip on the game tightened late in the second quarter when a decisive 9–0 run extended their advantage from 45–35 to 54–35.

The European side also built a game-high 19-point lead twice during the quarter, underlining their early superiority.

Despite trailing significantly, Nigeria showed resilience and composure to mount a response.

D’Tigress Rally Falls Short

Led by Elizabeth Balogun, D’Tigress produced a spirited 12–0 run spanning the end of the second quarter and the start of the third, cutting the deficit from 57–38 to 57–50.

Balogun finished with 15 points, eight rebounds and three assists, playing a key role in Nigeria’s comeback attempt.

However, France regained composure in the final quarter, controlling the tempo and preventing any shift in momentum.

French Efficiency Seals Victory

Janelle Salaun led the French charge with 19 points and five rebounds, while Valeriane Ayayi contributed 12 points and six rebounds in an all-round performance.

France led for nearly the entire game—39 minutes and 42 seconds—highlighting their sustained dominance.

In the closing moments, the hosts executed efficiently, scoring four unanswered points in the final minute while limiting Nigeria’s scoring opportunities.

Despite a strong fightback, D’Tigress were unable to overturn the early deficit as France closed out a deserved win.