FIBA Women’s World Cup: D’Tigress suffer narrow loss to Hungary

Nigeria’s D’Tigress lost 71–67 to Hungary in their second Group B match at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin on Saturday.

D’Tigress struggled in the opening quarter and went into the second quarter trailing 21–13.

Hungary continued to control the game in the second quarter and increased their lead to 36–26 by half-time.

Nigeria came out stronger after the break as Murjanatu Musa scored three straight baskets to begin the team’s comeback.

Amy Okonkwo then made two three-pointers, while Ezinne Kalu added a lay-up. However, Hungary remained in front and took a 52–42 lead into the final quarter.

D’Tigress fought hard in the fourth quarter and outscored Hungary 25–19.

Balogun and Victoria Macaulay played important roles in Nigeria’s late comeback. Balogun’s lay-up reduced Hungary’s lead to just two points.

However, Hungary remained calm in the final moments of the game. Reka Lelik scored two free throws to help Hungary secure a 71–67 victory.

The win was Hungary’s first at the Women’s Basketball World Cup in 28 years.

D’Tigress will now face France in their final Group B match on Monday, September 7. Nigeria will be hoping to win the game and end the group stage on a positive note.