Senegal Clinches Perfect Record in AfroBasket 2025 Qualifiers with Thrilling Win Over Cameroon
By Esther Otto
In a nail-biting showdown at the Dakar Arena, Senegal secured a flawless 3-0 record in Group C of the AfroBasket 2025 Qualifiers, edging out Cameroon 87-83 in a hard-fought battle.
Cameroon staged an impressive comeback, erasing Senegal’s 18-point lead and briefly taking the lead in the fourth quarter. However, a decisive 4-0 scoring run by the hosts in the final minute sealed the victory.
Brancou Badiou shone for Senegal, delivering a stellar performance with a game-high 31 points, while Karim Mane added 12 points to the scoreboard. Despite three Cameroonians scoring 16 points or more each, they left with a 2-1 record.
The turning point came after 10 lead changes when Moustapha Diop’s clutch floater propelled Senegal ahead 85-83 with just 58 seconds remaining. A crucial block by Karim Mane on Cameroonian guard Jeremiah Hill’s layup attempt secured Senegal’s victory from the free-throw line.
Senegal’s robust defense, evidenced by five blocked shots and a commanding 53-33 rebounding advantage, underscored their determination to defend their home court.
Notable statistics reveal Senegal’s prowess from beyond the arc, setting a record with 13 three-pointers for the second consecutive game. Despite a closely contested match, both teams ended with a similar free-throw percentage (72.7) and shared an equal number of assists (18).
Cameroon’s head coach, Alfred Aboya, lauded Senegal’s performance, acknowledging their exceptional play and coaching. Expressing anticipation for the next encounter in February, he commended his team’s fighting spirit until the final moments.
Reflecting on Cameroon’s first loss in three matches, the coach emphasized pride in his team’s resilience, highlighting their refusal to concede until the game’s end.
In a fiercely competitive AfroBasket 2025 Qualifiers matchup, Senegal’s triumph over Cameroon stands as a testament to their skill, teamwork, and unwavering determination on the basketball court.
