German 
English Mali Outclasses Uganda to hand Silverbacks second consecutive Qualifier defeat.
Dakar — Uganda’s World Cup qualification hopes suffered another massive blow as the Silverbacks fell 82-59 to a highly efficient Mali squad, marking their second consecutive defeat in the FIBA Africa World Cup Qualifiers.
Mali established physical and tactical control early in the contest, leaving Uganda trailing through every phase of play. Despite the Silverbacks dialing up their offensive volume, an inability to convert looks consistently allowed Mali to comfortably build and protect a double-digit cushion.
Efficiency and Paint Dominance stifle the Silverbacks
The story of the match lay in Mali’s clinical shot selection versus Uganda’s shooting woes. Mali put on a clinic in offensive execution, burying an impressive 49% of their 59 field goal attempts. In stark contrast, Uganda struggled heavily against Mali’s interior length; despite generating a high volume of 77 field goal attempts, the Silverbacks finished with a cold 30% shooting efficiency.
Uganda’s uphill battle was further complicated on the boards. Mali completely dictated the physical battle in the paint, out rebounding Uganda 46-40. By controlling the defensive glass, Mali successfully limited Uganda’s second-chance points and neutralized their transition game.
With the 23-point loss locking in a tough start for the Silverbacks, Uganda faces immediate pressure to fix their shooting efficiency and interior defense before their next qualifying window.
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