In their final group game at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium in Lille, France, on Sunday, D’Tigress triumphed over Canada with a score of 79-70.
This victory secured D’Tigress their first-ever appearance in the quarter-finals of the Olympic basketball tournament.
Nigeria advanced through the group stage with five classification points, currently leading the pack, with France yet to face Australia later in the day.
Under the leadership of Rena Wakama, the team rebounded from their loss to France in their second game, following an initial victory over Australia.
The first quarter ended in a close 18-18 tie, with little to separate D’Tigress and the Canadians. Canada edged ahead in the second quarter, leading 41-37 at halftime.
However, the third quarter saw a significant shift as Nigeria’s defense stifled Canada, limiting them to just five points.
D’Tigress secured their historic 9-point victory with a strong performance in the final quarter.
(cable)