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German Senegal exact revenge on Côte d’Ivoire with statement victory in Dakar
Senegal opened their FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 African Qualifiers Window 3 campaign in emphatic fashion, defeating Côte d’Ivoire 85-72 in Dakar to avenge the defeat they suffered against the Ivorians during Window 2.Playing in front of their home supporters, the Lions produced a commanding display, particularly in the first half, to send a strong message to their rivals and take an important step in their qualification journey.
Senegal started the game with great intensity, dominating both offensively and defensively. The hosts raced to a 29-16 lead in the opening quarter before extending their advantage to 55-36 at halftime, leaving Côte d’Ivoire with a mountain to climb.The Ivorians responded after the break, winning the third quarter 20-15 as they attempted to mount a comeback. However, Senegal remained composed and controlled the final period to secure a deserved 13-point victory.
A key factor behind Senegal’s success was their superiority on the boards. The Lions grabbed 53 rebounds compared to Côte d’Ivoire’s 35, giving them second-chance opportunities and limiting their opponents’ effectiveness in the paint. Senegal were also more efficient with their shooting, converting 43 percent of their field-goal attempts, while Côte d’Ivoire managed just 33 percent despite taking more shots.
The victory carries extra significance for the Senegalese side, who were eager to exact revenge after their loss to Côte d’Ivoire in Window 2. The response was emphatic, with the Lions producing one of their most complete performances of the qualifiers so far.
With home advantage and momentum now firmly on their side, Senegal will look to build on this important result as they continue their quest for a place at the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.For Côte d’Ivoire, the defeat serves as a setback, but the Elephants will aim to bounce back in their remaining fixtures as the battle for qualification intensifies.
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