Fresh off their dominant win over Kenya, the Uganda Gazelles are set to face their toughest challenge yet in the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Zone V Qualifiers as they take on hosts and defending champions Egypt today at the Hassan Moustafa Sports Hall in Cairo.
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated clash, head coach Nicholas Natuhereza expressed confidence in his squad’s preparedness, acknowledging the formidable task ahead.
“We’ve done some preparatory drills this morning, and the team is ready for the challenge,” Natuhereza said. “Egypt is a tough opponent, and playing at home gives them an extra advantage, but we are mentally and physically prepared to compete at the highest level.”
The Gazelles, who started their campaign with an emphatic 78-56 victory over Kenya, will be looking to build on that momentum.
Jane Asinde, who led Uganda with a game-high 24 points in the opener, will be crucial once again alongside key contributors like Paige Robinson and Shakira Nanvubya.
Egypt, on the other hand, will be eager to assert their dominance on home soil and extend their unbeaten run in Zone V qualifiers.
The last time these two sides met in the competition, Egypt edged Uganda to secure the automatic qualification spot, forcing the Gazelles to rely on a wildcard entry into the 2023 AfroBasket.
This time, Uganda is determined to take matters into their own hands and secure direct qualification to the 2025 Women’s AfroBasket in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
With both teams considered strong contenders for the lone qualification spot, tonight’s game could play a decisive role in shaping the tournament’s outcome.
The Gazelles will need to maintain their defensive discipline and offensive efficiency to counter Egypt’s fast-paced style of play.
The showdown promises to be a thrilling battle, with Uganda aiming to upset the hosts and take a major step toward their AfroBasket dream.
