Belgium tame D'Tigress to put on a show for 11,600 Cats fans

ANTWERP (Belgium) - Belgium signed off in front of their adoring fans inside Sportpaleis by shooting down Nigeria 78-61 at the FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Antwerp.

 

 

Another huge crowd of 11,645 watched the host nation put their foot on the gas in the second half and improve to 2-1 as they signed off ahead of Paris 2024.

Turning Point: Belgium left Nigeria trailing in their wake once the second half got underway. Only a 5-point game, the Cats shifted through the gears at lightning speed and had soon blasted their way into a commanding lead off the back of an 18-2 run.

TCL Player of the Game: Emma Meesseman found herself in near triple-double territory with another spectacular show as she registered a brilliant 14 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists and 6 steals. 

Stats Don't Lie: The 29 turnovers of Nigeria showed how they struggled to cope under the pressure of the hosts once Belgium turned up the dial.

Bottom Line: Belgium's task was to avoid an upset and make sure their phenomenal supporters went home happy and they certainly did that. It was the Cats somewhere near their finest.

Nigeria came to Antwerp looking to beat Senegal and they met their main objective. But they were outclassed against both USA and Belgium.

They Said: "I think it was a game with some ups and downs. But every time we reacted well. We have to start with defense and then we can run and move the ball. But we have to do it for 40 minutes. I am great for the chance we had to do it in this gym in front of so many people." Belgium's TISSOT MVP, Emma Meesseman

"I would have loved to have had a better spectacle for this nice crowd. I wanted us to get a little but more out of these games in terms of learning more." Belgium head coach Rachid Meziane

"I am super proud of these young ladies and the legacy we are leaving. It's been a journey and it is a testament to who were are as Nigerians. We will show our warrior spirit and continue to compete." Nigeria playcaller Rene Wakama

"Belgium is an incredible team. Well coached and well disciplined. We struggled to find our rhythm in the game. This is just a learning experience for my team looking ahead to the Olympics. Every game is preparation." Nigeria standout Amy Okonkwo

FIBA