Uganda’s women’s national basketball team, the Gazelles, face a major test tonight as they take on hosts and defending Zone V champions Egypt in a high-stakes showdown at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Zone V Qualifiers in Cairo.
The game, set for 7 pm EAT at the Hassan Moustafa Sports Hall, carries significant weight as Uganda seeks revenge for their 2023 finals defeat at home.
Both teams come into this clash on the back of yesterday’s dominant opening-day victories.
The Gazelles overpowered Kenya 78-56, while hosts Egypt dismantled Burundi 102-40 in a ruthless display.
With top two teams advancing to the final, Uganda’s ambitions of securing a direct ticket to the 2025 AfroBasket tournament hinge on overcoming the Pharaohs on their home soil.
Settling Old Scores
Egypt broke Ugandan hearts in 2023, defeating the Gazelles 74-65 in Kampala to claim the Zone V title and secure automatic qualification for AfroBasket in Rwanda.
However, Uganda, who were forced to rely on a wildcard, went on to finish 7th in the continental tournament; three places above Egypt’s 10th-place finish.
This historical backdrop fuels tonight’s encounter, as Uganda eyes a statement victory.
Head-to-head, Egypt has dominated their meetings, winning six of their eight encounters.
The Gazelles, however, can draw confidence from their narrow 86-85 win over Egypt in the 2023 group stage.
Prior to that, Uganda endured three consecutive losses: 64-55 in the 2019 qualifiers and heavy defeats (92-68 and 85-56) in the 2017 tournament.
Key Battles on the Court
Uganda’s charge will be led by captain Jane Asinde, who was instrumental in the win over Kenya with a game-high 24 points and nine rebounds.
Asinde’s leadership, combined with contributions from Paige Robinson, who registered 15 points, and Shakira Nanvubya (14 points), will be crucial in countering Egypt’s firepower.
Egypt, on the other hand, boasts an experienced squad spearheaded by Raneem Elgedawy.
The 28-year-old center was named MVP of the 2023 qualifiers, averaging 19.6 points and 9.8 rebounds per game.
She, alongside Nadine Mohamed, was relentless in Egypt’s opening game, with both players scoring 16 points each in the first half before finishing with 22 and 20 points, respectively.
The Pharaohs capitalised on Burundi’s sloppy ball handling, forcing 42 turnovers and punishing them in the paint with a 54-20 scoring advantage.
Uganda must be wary of similar defensive lapses, as Egypt thrives on high-pressure plays and transition basketball.
Road to the Final
Following tonight’s showdown, the Gazelles will face South Sudan on Wednesday before concluding the group phase against Burundi on Thursday.
The top two teams will battle for the Zone V title on Saturday, February 8, with the champion securing automatic qualification to AfroBasket 2025.
For Uganda, a victory over Egypt would not only avenge their 2023 heartbreak but also provide a major confidence boost in their quest for AfroBasket qualification.
