By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Nigeria’s D’Tigress suffered a narrow 71–67 defeat to Hungary in their second Group B encounter at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin on Saturday.
Rena Wakama’s side made a slow start to the contest, with Hungary taking advantage to establish a 21–13 lead at the end of the opening quarter.
The Europeans remained in control in the second quarter, keeping Nigeria at arm’s length to take a 36–26 advantage into half-time.
D’Tigress, however, returned from the break with renewed intensity.
Murjanatu Musa ignited Nigeria’s comeback with three consecutive baskets, while Amy Okonkwo drained two three-pointers and Ezinne Kalu added a lay-up as the African champions attempted to claw their way back into the contest.
Hungary weathered the pressure and still held a 52–42 lead heading into the decisive fourth quarter.
Nigeria then produced their best spell of the game, outscoring Hungary 25–19 in a thrilling final quarter.
Balogun and Victoria Macaulay were influential in the late surge, with Balogun’s lay-up in the closing stages cutting Hungary’s advantage to just two points and raising hopes of a dramatic turnaround.
D’Tigress were unable to complete the comeback, however, as Reka Lelik calmly converted two late free throws to seal the 71–67 victory for Hungary.
The win was Hungary’s first at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in 28 years.
D’Tigress will now focus on their final Group B encounter against France on Monday, September 7, as they seek a strong finish to the group stage.
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