The countdown is on, and the excitement is palpable as Nigeria, Liberia, and host Ivory Coast gear up for a fierce contest at the AfroBasket qualifiers for Zone 3 countries.
This high-stakes tournament will determine which team secures the coveted sole ticket to the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket, scheduled to take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, in late August.
The regional qualifier will unfold in Abidjan from July 31 to August 4, with all eyes on the three teams as they vie for the prestigious spot.
Angola, Cameroon, Egypt, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Uganda, and Zambia have already secured their places in the championship, adding to the anticipation and pressure for the Zone 3 teams.
Host nation Ivory Coast comes into the tournament with a rich history in the U18 Women’s AfroBasket. With two silver medals from five appearances, the Ivorian team has been eager to reclaim its place on the podium, a feat they last achieved in 2014.
The home advantage could play a crucial role, and the Ivorian squad will be banking on their experience and determination to overcome Nigeria and Liberia. A sixth appearance at the championship is within reach if they can harness their strengths and play fearlessly against their opponents.
Nigeria, on the other hand, has had a more sporadic presence in the U18 Women’s AfroBasket. The Nigerian team has participated in only two previous final rounds, in 2008 and 2010, bringing home a silver medal in their last appearance.
Since then, Nigeria has been absent from the championship, making this qualifier a significant opportunity for them to return to the international stage.
The Nigerian Basketball Federation has been working tirelessly to prepare the team, aiming to make a strong comeback and re-establish Nigeria as a formidable force in African women’s basketball.
Liberia’s story is one of resilience and determination. Emerging from a long suspension, the Liberia Basketball Association is committed to making a substantial impact in their return to the African basketball scene.
The leadership has been diligently working behind the scenes, ensuring the team’s readiness for this crucial qualifier. Liberia’s participation is not just about competition but also about making a statement and marking their presence in the sport’s mainstream once again.
As the tournament unfolds, the three teams will face off in a round-robin format, each match pivotal in determining the ultimate winner. The team that emerges victorious will earn the honor of representing Zone 3 at the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket in South Africa, joining the ranks of the continent’s elite.
With national pride and a place in the continental championship on the line, Nigeria, Liberia, and Ivory Coast are set to deliver an unforgettable battle in Abidjan. The stakes are high, and the competition fierce, promising thrilling basketball action and a showcase of young talent ready to shine on the African stage.
Source: FIBA
