Uganda’s Silverbacks are on the brink of securing a coveted place at the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket, but standing in their way is a resurgent Nigerian side eager to keep their own qualification hopes alive.
The two teams clash on Saturday in Tripoli, Libya, in a high-stakes encounter that could define Uganda’s journey to Angola later this year.
The Silverbacks head into the game riding a wave of confidence after their stunning 63-60 triumph over Group B leaders Cape Verde on Friday.
It was a statement win, not only avenging their narrow 78-73 defeat to the Islanders in the first qualification window but also revitalising their AfroBasket ambitions.
“This was a massive win for us,” said head coach Mandy Juruni after the Cape Verde victory. “We knew we had to start this window strong, and the boys delivered under pressure. There’s still work to do, but this puts us in a great position.”
Indeed, the Silverbacks now find themselves on the cusp of qualification.
A win over Nigeria would all but guarantee Uganda’s fourth consecutive AfroBasket appearance, a remarkable feat for a team that has steadily grown into one of the continent’s rising forces.
Uganda’s success against Cape Verde was built on composure, defensive grit, and standout performances from their star players.
Veteran sharpshooter Robinson Opong was electric, scoring a game-high 22 points, including six three-pointers, while Ishmail Wainright made a triumphant return to the squad, contributing 16 points, seven rebounds, and three assists.
Against Nigeria, the Silverbacks will need a similar level of intensity and focus. Juruni has emphasized the importance of mental resilience and defensive discipline—qualities that helped Uganda edge past Cape Verde.
“We have played Nigeria several times, just like Cape Verde. We just have to know how we are going to approach the game,” Juruni noted.
“We’ll show the boys previous results against Nigeria to remind them that we have beaten them before. If we play together, do our job, and compete, we’ll be in a good position.”
Uganda will draw confidence from their 72-62 victory over Nigeria in Monastir during the first qualification window.
That result showcased the Silverbacks’ ability to handle the D’Tigers’ athleticism and depth, something they will aim to replicate in Tripoli.
While Uganda’s path to Angola is clear with a win, Nigeria’s qualification hopes hang in the balance.
The D’Tigers bounced back from a winless first window with a gritty 75-70 comeback victory over Libya on Friday, keeping their campaign alive—albeit with slim margins for error.
However, nothing short of a win against Uganda would eliminate them from contention. With their AfroBasket dreams hanging by a thread, expect the D’Tigers to play with desperation and intensity.
For Juruni and his squad, the focus is on maintaining composure and sticking to their game plan.
“Our mindset is to win the game in front of us,” Juruni emphasized. “We’ve shown we can compete at this level, and now it’s about finishing the job.”
Kick off is 7 pm Ugandan time.
