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English Beyond the Scoreline: Senegal Have Plenty to Build On
Canada won 72–57, but the final score does not fully reflect Senegal’s performance.
Against the No. 7-ranked team in the world, Senegal showed plenty of character and quality. At one point in the third quarter, the Lionesses reduced the deficit to just 48–47 before Canada responded with a decisive run.
The numbers also tell an interesting story. Senegal shot an impressive 46.7% from three, showing that the perimeter game is developing. But the 29.7% two-point shooting, the 14–26 deficit in points in the paint, and Canada’s 15–8 advantage on offensive rebounds highlight where the biggest improvements are needed.
Senegal must become more efficient inside, finish better around the basket and do a better job securing defensive rebounds. The 63.6% free-throw shooting is another area that can improve.
But these are fixable problems.
What matters is that Senegal competed, pushed a top-seven team and showed they can produce quality basketball against elite opposition.
This tournament should be viewed as part of the preparation for AfroBasket 2027. If Senegal can clean up these areas while maintaining the shooting, athleticism and competitiveness displayed against Canada, this team can become a serious force.
The result was a loss. The performance was a reminder that Senegal is moving in the right direction.
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