France Deal D’Tigress Second Blow at FIBA Women's World Cup Qualifiers The Nigerian female national basketball team, D’Tigress, continued to face a tough challenge at the ongoing FIBA Women's World Cup qualifiers in Lyon, France. In their second Group A match, the team suffered a 93-86 defeat at the hands of the hosts, France. The French team took control of the game from the start, leading by six points before the first quarter even ended. Despite Nigeria's spirited efforts, France maintained their lead throughout the game. The D’Tigress managed to claim the third quarter by six points but were unable to sustain their momentum in the fourth quarter. Nigeria's Amy Okonkwo led the team with 16 points, while Elizabeth Balogun and Murjanatu Musa each scored 15 points. Ezinne Kalu also contributed 14 points to the team's effort. Despite their valiant performance, the D’Tigress were unable to overcome the French team's strong defense. The match saw France take a commanding lead from the start, with a 6-0 lead in the first quarter. They continued to build on this lead, with a 12-6 sequence that gave them an 11-point advantage. Nigeria managed to reduce the deficit to four points in the second quarter, but France took a 12-point lead into halftime. The D’Tigress started the third quarter strongly, taking a 5-0 lead. However, France fought back, posting an 8-0 sequence that gave them a six-point lead. The fourth quarter was a closely contested affair, but France emerged victorious. This defeat marks Nigeria's second loss at the FIBA Women's World Cup qualifiers, while France remains unbeaten. The D’Tigress will face Germany in their final group match on Tuesday, 17 March, in a bid to salvage their campaign.