AfroBasket 2025: Nigeria’s D’Tigers Dominate Madagascar 77-59 in Group B Opener

Nigeria’s men’s basketball team, the D’Tigers, made a bold statement in their AfroBasket 2025 Group B opener with a dominant 77–59 victory over Madagascar at the Pavilhão Multiusos de Luanda in Angola. The win, marked by balanced scoring and disciplined defense, sends a strong message that Nigeria is back in serious contention on the African stage.

Wednesday’s clash marked only the second AfroBasket meeting between Nigeria and Madagascar since 2011, when the D’Tigers previously secured a comfortable win. Madagascar’s return to the tournament after several years away brought excitement, and the early stages of the game were fiercely contested. Both teams traded baskets in the opening minutes, but Nigeria gradually found their rhythm, relying on aggressive plays and swift ball movement to edge ahead.

The first quarter ended 18–14 in Nigeria’s favor, with Caleb Agada striking early and Madagascar’s Sitraka Raharimanantoanina answering to keep his side within reach. The second quarter saw Madagascar rally, outscoring Nigeria 23–20 and narrowing the halftime score to just 38–37. It was clear at the break that the D’Tigers would need a stronger defensive stand to secure the win.

That adjustment came in the third quarter, and it proved decisive. Nigeria delivered a masterclass in both defense and offense, going on a 17–9 run that shifted the momentum entirely in their favor. Agada, Stan Okoye, Talib Zanna, and Kaodirichi Akobundu led the charge, combining sharp rotations on defense with efficient scoring. By the end of the quarter, the D’Tigers had created the breathing space they needed.

The fourth quarter mirrored Nigeria’s third-quarter dominance, as they closed out the game with a 22–13 scoring burst. The defense remained tight, forcing turnovers and limiting Madagascar’s scoring opportunities. When the final buzzer sounded, Nigeria had sealed a commanding 18-point victory, ensuring an ideal start to their Group B campaign.

Caleb Agada was the standout performer, registering 22 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals in just 25 minutes. Veteran Stan Okoye added 13 points and 5 rebounds, while Ike Nwamu and Kaodirichi Akobundu also contributed valuable double-digit performances. For Madagascar, Raharimanantoanina led the scoring with 20 points, supported by Kiady Razanamahenina’s 13 and Mathias M’Madi’s 11.

Statistically, Nigeria’s superiority was clear. They shot 48% from the field compared to Madagascar’s 35% and won the rebounding battle 40–31. These numbers reflected the D’Tigers’ physical edge and execution in both halves of the court.

This opening win strengthens Nigeria’s reputation as a heavyweight contender in Group B. Their next two games present significant challenges: a clash with defending champions Tunisia on Friday, followed by a showdown against Cameroon on Sunday. Group B is one of the toughest in the tournament, featuring top-ranked sides Tunisia (#4 in Africa), Nigeria (#6), Cameroon (#9), and Madagascar (#19).

If the D’Tigers can maintain their cohesion, defensive discipline, and offensive depth, they stand a strong chance of progressing deep into the competition. As former AfroBasket champions in 2015, Nigeria is determined to reclaim its place at the top of African basketball, and their opening performance in Luanda has set the tone for the journey ahead.