Egypt’s 72-60 win over Nigeria in the U18 AfroBasket Group C opener was an important victory, driven by outstanding performances from Khadiga Abouelghait and Malak Elhemaly. Despite a late push from Nigeria, Egypt maintained control and began their campaign strongly.
Having achieved podium finishes in the last two editions of the FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket, Egypt was keen to start their Group C opener strongly and establish their continental ambitions.
Therefore, the match against Nigeria, who won the silver medal in 2010, was a significant event for Egypt and a great opportunity to showcase their basketball skills.
According to Africa basket website Both teams put on an impressive display in the first quarter, entertaining fans and keeping the excitement at a high level. A lively Nigerian team with thrilling end-to-end action quickly matched what seemed like initial Egyptian dominance. The first quarter ended with Egypt holding onto a one-point lead, closing the quarter with a 21-20 advantage. In the second quarter, they continued at the same pace as the first quarter.
Although Nigeria relied on their exciting star Idubamo Beggi, who ended the game with 23 points, six rebounds, and 3 assists, Egypt had Khadiga Abouelghait, who scored 19 points, and the impressive pair of Malak Elhemaly and Hana Mohamed Hathout, who both reached double figures, combining for 23 points as Egypt outperformed Nigeria to end the first half with a lead of 43-32.
Despite Egypt’s strong performance, Nigeria made a bid for a comeback in the third quarter after narrowly outscoring their opponents 16-15. Egypt’s coach Mostafa Hadhood, who has been guiding the team since 2022, is a perfectionist. Having secured second place in Madagascar, he now has his sights set on the tournament’s trophy, hoping that his team will maintain their good form throughout the event.
