By VICTOR OKOYE

World number three-ranked team, France secured a 93–86 victory over reigning African Champions Nigeria in a Group A clash at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament in Villeurbanne.

The hosts led from start to finish at the Astroballe arena on Sunday, establishing early control and maintaining their advantage throughout the competitive encounter.

Nigeria currently ranked eight in the world, mounted a strong third-quarter push to cut the deficit, but France responded with a composed final period to preserve their lead and close out the game.

France maintained control during the decisive moments, preventing any lead change and ensuring Nigeria never went ahead throughout the contest.

Janelle Salaun led France with 19 points and five rebounds, shooting six-of-nine from the field and four-of-seven from three-point range in nearly 30 minutes.

Valeriane Ayayi added 12 points and six rebounds, finishing with a team-best plus-12 rating and making key contributions at both ends of the floor.

Elizabeth Balogun paced Nigeria with 15 points, eight rebounds and three assists in almost 35 minutes, providing momentum during the team’s strongest rally.

France produced a decisive 9–0 run late in the second quarter, extending the lead from 45–35 to 54–35 to gain firm control of the game.

Nigeria replied with a 12–0 run spanning late second and early third quarters, trimming the deficit from 57–38 to 57–50 with Balogun contributing five points.

France built the game’s largest lead of 19 points twice in the second quarter, first at 54–35 and again at 57–38.

Nigeria never led in the contest and ultimately fell by seven points as France closed strongly.

France led for 39 minutes and 42 seconds of the game, underscoring their dominance from the opening tip-off.

Nigeria never held the lead, while the contest was tied for only 18 seconds.

In the final 55 seconds, France outscored Nigeria 4–0 to seal the victory and maintain control.

France converted two baskets, secured rebounds and committed no turnovers, while Nigeria missed their lone field goal and two free throws. (NAN)