Nigeria’s D’Tigress have been knocked out of the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin, Germany, following France’s 95-69 victory over South Korea in Group B.
The result leaves Nigeria unable to finish ahead of either South Korea or Hungary, irrespective of the outcome of their final group fixture against France. Even victory over the French side would not secure qualification, as the head-to-head rule would determine the standings if teams are level on points.
France secured their second consecutive group win after previously overcoming Hungary, while South Korea strengthened their qualification hopes with a vital victory against Nigeria.
Under the competition format, group winners advance directly to the quarter-finals, while second- and third-placed teams enter a play-in round for the remaining quarter-final spots. Teams that finish fourth are eliminated.
D’Tigress’ early departure is a disappointing outcome for the reigning African champions, who arrived in Germany with expectations boosted by their impressive recent performances.
Nigeria’s best World Cup finish remains their quarter-final appearance at the 2018 tournament in Tenerife, Spain. They will now play France in their final Group B match, with only pride at stake.
