Junior D’Tigress are set for a major test on Sunday as they face defending champions Mali in the final of the 2026 FIBA U-18 Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

Nigeria booked its place in the championship game after edging the host nation 53-50 in a closely fought semi-final. The victory also secured the team a place at the 2027 FIBA U-19 Women’s Basketball World Cup in China.

The Nigerian youngsters started strongly against Ivory Coast, taking a narrow 12-11 advantage after the opening quarter before extending their lead to four points at halftime.

They maintained their momentum in the third quarter and entered the final period with a 41-36 advantage.

Despite a late push from the hosts, Nigeria held firm to secure the three-point victory and earn another opportunity to compete for continental honours.

Favour Joy Anari was instrumental in the win, finishing with 15 points, four assists and five steals. Oluwatobiloba Owolabi contributed 11 points, including three successful three-pointers, while Nimah Ibidunni collected 12 rebounds.

Mali, meanwhile, reached the final after defeating Egypt 57-55. The reigning champions have enjoyed an impressive campaign and are pursuing a 10th title in the age-category competition.

The final will also give Nigeria an opportunity to avenge its defeat to Mali in the 2024 edition. Mali won that encounter 76-56 in Pretoria, leaving the Junior D’Tigress determined to produce a different outcome this time.

Nigeria had earlier finished the group stage with two wins and one defeat before overcoming Cameroon 75-45 in the quarter-finals.

With both finalists already guaranteed World Cup qualification, the Sunday showdown will be focused entirely on winning the African title.