Connect with us

Sports

Afrobasket: Tinubu hails D’Tigress on historic title triumph

Published

on

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, for lifting their seventh African championship title at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket.

‎D’Tigress, led by Coach Rena Wakama, defeated Mali 78–64 in a gripping final on Sunday night at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

‎President Tinubu, in a message issued by his Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said the win had brought pride and global recognition to Nigeria.

‎He lauded their skill, resilience, and teamwork, which powered them to a fifth consecutive AfroBasket title, an African record and their seventh championship overall.

‎Despite trailing in the first quarter, the president commended their determination and fighting spirit throughout the match.

‎”Your superb performance throughout the competition has made Nigeria proud.”

‎”Like the Super Falcons, you have inspired our young ladies. You embodied the indomitable Nigerian spirit, the power of unity, and the rewards of hard work.”

‎”By winning the AfroBasket trophy for a record fifth consecutive time, you have written your names in history and shown the world what to expect out of Africa.”

‎Tinubu also praised Head Coach, Rena Wakama and her technical crew for their outstanding leadership and strategic execution.

‎He commended the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) for its consistent support and dedication to growing the sport.

‎”The Federal Government and Nigerians will never forget the sacrifices and remain grateful for the highly elevating performances.

‎”The government and the people of Nigeria celebrate you and assure you of our continued support as you prepare for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifying tournaments next March.”

‎The president expressed his eagerness to welcome the champions back to Abuja.

‎‎”I look forward to receiving the victorious team and the trophy in Abuja, while wishing you all a safe trip.”

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Cover

Japan Overpowers Tunisia With 2-0 World Cup Triumph

Published

on

Japan delivered a composed performance to secure a 2-0 victory over Tunisia in their World Cup group stage encounter, underlining their growing reputation as one of Asia’s most disciplined sides.

The game kicked off, and it was evident immediately who was on the front foot – Japan! They imposed their game plan with their midfield Trio, passing the ball around smoothly, putting Tunisia on the back foot as they chase shadows. Their work ethic was impeccable, pressing high and recovering possession instantly before launching swift counterattacks.

Tunisia simply could not cope with the pace and organisation and couldn’t build a flow from their back line.

Japan took the lead midway through the first half as a well-constructed attack down the right flank culminated in a sharp finish that went in without hope. This represented their dominance in converting pressure into goals. They doubled their lead in the second half, essentially killing the game as a quick break caught Tunisia off guard and their striker coolly slot home. Their efficiency in both goals showed their quality when attacking the goal.

Tunisia came into the match hoping to cause a surprise, but they simply could not get into gear.

Their forwards were isolated up front, and their creativity was hampered by Japan’s oppressive pressing game. Despite some brave attempts to break down the resolute Japanese defense, even their long balls and set-pieces couldn’t cause a problem as the Japan defenders stood tall and cleared danger. Although there were instances of flashes of brilliant individual skill, Tunisia was lacking cohesion on the pitch.

Their failure to consistently maintain attacks often exposed their goal to Japanese counters. Japan’s defense also deserves a mention. They were so compact and disciplined.

There was no space in the final third of the pitch, leaving the opposition goalkeeper having relatively nothing to do, thanks to the fantastic anticipation of the defenders.

Japan were able to effectively control the game throughout due to their ability to simultaneously deny Tunisia space and create chances of their own; this clearly shows how disciplined they are as a side. Japan’s win keeps their confidence high and positions them strongly to qualify for the knock-out stages of the World Cup. They’ve shown that they can play with technically skillful players, combined with tactically mature football, the ingredients for World Cup success. For Tunisia, there are concerns from this game.

If they can’t find a better rhythm or if their attacking options don’t step up, this game could be difficult for their tournament journey.

Japan’s 2-0 victory over Tunisia showcased an exceptional performance that combined discipline, lethal efficiency, and robust defensive organization, strengthening their group position and boosting their belief in their ability to progress in the World Cup. Tunisia, on the other hand, have shown in this match that they may have a tough road ahead at this prestigious event.

Continue Reading

Cover

Ecuador Held By Curaçao As Eloy Room Shines

Published

on

Ecuador’s clash with Curaçao in the World Cup ended in a goalless draw, but the story of the night was not the scoreline. It was the heroics of Curaçao’s goalkeeper, Eloy Room, who delivered a performance that will be remembered for years.

Room faced relentless pressure from Ecuador’s attack, yet he stood firm. With 15 saves, he denied every attempt, frustrating forwards who had expected to break through with ease. His composure and reflexes ensured Curaçao earned their first-ever World Cup point, a milestone for the Caribbean nation.

Ecuador dominated possession and created numerous opportunities. Enner Valencia and Gonzalo Plata both came close, but their efforts were repeatedly thwarted by Room. The South Americans pressed high, moved the ball quickly, and tested Curaçao’s defense, but lacked the finishing touch.

The frustration grew as the match wore on. Ecuador’s inability to convert chances highlighted a recurring issue: dominance without clinical execution. For a side aiming to progress deep into the tournament, the draw felt more like a setback than a point gained.

While Room was the standout, Curaçao’s defensive unit also deserves credit. The backline remained compact, closing spaces and forcing Ecuador into difficult angles. Their discipline ensured that despite Ecuador’s attacking waves, clear-cut chances were limited.

ALSO READ

Late Goal Seals Win For Czechia

Curaçao’s strategy was clear: absorb pressure, rely on their goalkeeper, and seize rare counter-attacking opportunities. Though they created little going forward, their resilience paid off with a result that will boost confidence.

For Curaçao, this draw was more than just a point. It was a statement. Competing against a seasoned South American side, they showed that determination and organization can level the playing field. The result marks their first point in World Cup history, a moment of pride for players and fans alike.

Room’s performance will likely be remembered as one of the finest goalkeeping displays in recent World Cup memory. His saves not only kept Ecuador at bay but also gave Curaçao belief that they belong on the global stage.

For Ecuador, the draw raises questions about their attacking efficiency. Despite controlling the game, they failed to break down a resolute opponent. Their forwards lacked sharpness, and their midfield struggled to find decisive passes in the final third.

Coach Félix Sánchez will need to address these issues quickly. With tougher fixtures ahead, Ecuador cannot afford to waste opportunities. Their campaign now hinges on finding goals to match their possession and pressure.

The match drew attention worldwide, with analysts praising Room’s heroics. His 15 saves set a new benchmark for resilience in a single World Cup game. Fans celebrated Curaçao’s achievement, while Ecuador supporters expressed disappointment at missed chances.

Ecuador’s dominance met Curaçao’s defiance, and the result was a historic 0-0 draw. Eloy Room’s brilliance ensured his nation walked away with a point that will inspire future generations. For Ecuador, the night was a reminder that possession and pressure mean little without goals.

Continue Reading

Cover

Brazil Beat Haiti 3-0, Boost Knockout Hopes

Published

on

Brazil strengthened their chances of advancing to the knockout stage of the World Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Haiti today. The South Americans delivered a disciplined performance, combining attacking flair with defensive solidity to secure three crucial points.

From the opening whistle, Brazil imposed themselves on the match. Their midfield trio dictated tempo, recycling possession and stretching Haiti’s defensive lines. Within the first 15 minutes, Brazil’s pressure paid off when striker Gabriel Silva converted a low cross from the right flank, giving his side an early lead.

Despite conceding early, Haiti showed resilience. They tightened their defensive shape and attempted to hit Brazil on the counterattack. Winger Jean-Pierre Louis tested Brazil’s goalkeeper with a sharp effort from distance, but the shot was comfortably saved. Haiti’s determination kept the scoreline respectable through much of the first half.

Brazil doubled their advantage just before halftime. Midfielder Lucas Andrade unleashed a curling shot from outside the box, leaving Haiti’s goalkeeper rooted to the spot. The strike highlighted Brazil’s technical superiority and gave them a cushion heading into the break.

In the second half, Brazil maintained control. Their passing sequences frustrated Haiti, who struggled to regain possession. Brazil’s third goal came in the 70th minute when substitute forward Rafael Costa capitalized on a defensive lapse, slotting the ball calmly into the net. The goal sealed the contest and allowed Brazil to manage the closing stages with confidence.

Brazil’s coach emphasized balance, ensuring the team did not overcommit forward. The defensive line remained compact, neutralizing Haiti’s attempts to break through. This tactical discipline prevented Haiti from creating clear chances and underscored Brazil’s maturity in tournament play.

Although Haiti failed to score, their effort was commendable. The team fought hard, pressing when possible and showing flashes of creativity. However, the gulf in quality was evident, particularly in midfield battles where Brazil consistently regained control.

The victory places Brazil in a strong position in their group. With six points from two matches, they are now favorites to progress to the knockout stage. The team’s blend of youth and experience appears to be clicking at the right time, raising hopes among supporters for a deep run in the tournament.

Brazil will face a tougher test in their next fixture against a European opponent. The team must maintain focus and continue refining their attacking transitions. For Haiti, the defeat complicates their path forward, but they remain mathematically alive. Their next match will be decisive in determining whether they can keep their World Cup dream aliv

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2023 - 2025 DailyMirror Nigeria. Design by AspireWeb.ng, powered by WordPress.