Mali, Egypt cruise to second wins, Uganda storm to first win

CAIRO (Egypt) - Mali on Sunday cruised to a second win producing another top scorer in Rokiatou Berthe outside their first night's star Mable Doumbia.

Berthe sank 24 points, seven rebounds, five assists against Doumbia’s 23 in Mali’s 153-14 points win over Gabon.

Spotting jersey number 10, Berthe proved to be the go-to-go girl for Mali.

Berthe in addition had seven rebounds and five assists to her credit to ensure a comfortable win.

Meanwhile, host Egypt saw real action and engaged Algeria that already had a win under their belt over Gabon.

The Egyptians mulled their North Africa neighbors 101-23.

Egypt's small forward Jana Elalfy was in good form scoring 24 points, 10 rebounds, two assists for her team. She says that she hopes to keep up the pace and help Egypt win the trophy.

"I am glad for today’s victory. My target is to keep this pace all the way and help Egypt win the trophy."

Head Coach of Egypt, Emadeldin Mahmoud Aly Aly while commenting on the game said that they respect their opponent bot minding the final score.

"Our thanks go to the Egyptian Basketball Federation and the people of Egypt and we dedicate this victory to them. We respect every team here and will be banking on the experience we gathered in Serbia [training camp] in this competition and simply hope for the best."

Ghoullem Tekkouk at the head of the Algeria bench said his team played against a better-prepared side and were ready for the championship.

"We're sad that we lost to Egypt but they were the better side. That notwithstanding we still look forward to being in the semi-final."

In the last game of the day, Uganda stormed to a win defeating Chad 56-39 points.

Christine Namyalo rallied to 20 points, 13 rebounds, three assists to put smiles on the faces of Ugandans after a Day 1 disappointing start that saw Mali run them over. Gertrude Nyamutoro added 13 points, 4 rebounds, three assists.

Chad’s Denise Naldjim Moise sank 16 points, eight rebounds, five assists for her team but it was not enough to help the situation.

Matches for Monday will see Algeria take on Mali, Uganda against Egypt and Chad face Gabon.

FIBA