The final four of the FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket 2026 delivered two thrilling semifinals on Friday at the Palais des Sports de Treichville. After two closely contested games, Mali and Nigeria secured their places in the championship game, while host nation Côte d’Ivoire saw its impressive home campaign come to an end in the semifinals.
Mali edge Egypt in a thrilling semifinal
In the first semifinal, Mali narrowly defeated Egypt 57–55 in a tense defensive battle.
Neither team managed to establish a decisive advantage, with Mali holding the lead through most of the game before Egypt mounted a late comeback in the fourth quarter.
Mali captain Couda Keita led the way with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists, while Assan Mariko delivered a dominant performance on the glass with 12 points and 14 rebounds.
Egypt stayed within striking distance until the final possession, but Hania Hassabelnaby's late attempt failed to fall, allowing Mali to hold on for the two-point victory.
The result sends Mali to their seventh consecutive FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket final, extending one of the most remarkable runs in the history of the competition.
Nigeria end Côte d’Ivoire’s impressive run
The second semifinal was another dramatic contest, with Nigeria defeating host nation Côte d’Ivoire 53–50 in front of a passionate crowd at the Palais des Sports.
The Junior D'Tigress took a 27–23 lead into halftime, but Côte d’Ivoire responded strongly after the break, winning the third quarter 16–14 and setting up a tense finish.
The game featured 11 lead changes and seven ties, underlining just how evenly matched the two teams were. However, Nigeria kept its composure in the decisive moments to secure a three-point victory and book its place in the final.
For Côte d’Ivoire, Fatima Diouf led the team with 12 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists, while Salimata Koné contributed 9 points.
Despite the defeat, Côte d’Ivoire can be proud of a historic campaign on home soil. The host nation reached the semifinals and remains in contention for a bronze medal.
Nigeria set up another final against Mali
Nigeria's victory sends the Junior D'Tigress into the final for the second consecutive edition, setting up another highly anticipated showdown with Mali.
The Nigerians were led by captain Favour Anari, who finished with 15 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists. Zainab Adelaja recorded Nigeria's best efficiency rating, while Nimah Ibidunni made a major impact on the boards with 12 rebounds.
The result also guarantees Nigeria one of Africa's two qualification spots for the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2027.
Côte d’Ivoire still chasing a medal
Although the semifinal loss was a disappointment for the home crowd, Côte d’Ivoire's tournament is not over.
The Elephanteaux will face Egypt in the third-place game on Sunday, August 16 at 11:00 GMT, with a bronze medal at stake.
The championship game will then pit Mali against Nigeria at 05:00 pm GMT, bringing together two of the dominant forces in African women's youth basketball.