Nigeria’s D’Tigers fell 69–55 to Guinea on Saturday in Tunisia, suffering their second consecutive loss in the opening window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup African Qualifiers.
Guinea controlled the tempo from the tip-off, outscoring Nigeria 22–16 in the first quarter and taking a 35–26 lead into halftime. Nigeria attempted to push back after the break, but Guinea’s physicality and shot-making ensured they stayed in front through all four quarters.
Guinea Stay in Control
D’Tigers showed effort but struggled to convert offensively, especially in key stretches. Guinea, on the other hand, were efficient on both ends, stretching their lead to double digits in the third quarter and maintaining their composure in the fourth to seal a comfortable win.
Nigeria improved slightly in transition and ball movement compared to their opening-game loss to Tunisia, but the team still suffered from cold shooting, turnovers, and difficulty defending in the paint.
Nigeria Under Pressure in Group C
The defeat leaves Nigeria winless after two games, following their earlier overtime loss to host Tunisia. With only the top three teams in Group C advancing, D’Tigers now face added pressure heading into their final game of the window.
Guinea, meanwhile, move to two wins from two after beating Rwanda in their opener.
What Comes Next
Nigeria will look to avoid finishing the window without a win when they face Rwanda on Sunday at 20:00. A victory is crucial to keep their qualification hopes steady before action moves to the next set of windows in 2026.
