Mozambique, Zimbabwe off to flying start in opening day of Zone 6 Women's AfroBasket Qualifiers

BULAWAYO (Mozambique) – The opening day of FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Zone 6 Qualifiers in Zimbabwean city of Bulawayo saw Mozambique prove why they have become the rulers of that part of the continent when they outclassed Angola 74-52.

In the day's other game, Zimbabwe topped their northern neighbours Zambia 69-57 for the delight of home fans. 

Angola v Mozambique (52-74)

Though Angola led through the first quarter, Tamara Seda-led Mozambique turned the situation around to finish the day as top of Group A.

Angola started the game with the intention of making every second on the court count. And they kicked off the game with a bang, heading into the second quarter with a four-point advantage (18-14).

By the time the first buzzer resounded, Italee Lucas had already scored 9 points, while Mozambique’s Invigild Mucauro had netted 12 points for her side.

But coach Carlos Aik and Mozambique had an ace down their sleeve. They outplayed Angola and scored scored 16 points from the 14 turnovers Angola made. At half-time, the game was already in favor of Mozambique, as they led 64-40.

The final quarter was a mere formality, though Angola outscored their opponent 12-10. But the gap was already too wide to be closed. Cristina Maquitete’s 16 points and Nadir Manuel’s contribution of 11 points were of no use for Angola.

On the other side of the court, Dulce Mabjaia had a field day with 17 points, netting five from behind the arc. Mucauro and Odelia Mafanela each contributed 10 points to Mozambique’s total, thus giving them a margin ahead of their second game.

Zambia v Zimbabwe (57-69)

Starting the tournament with a win is always good for hosts, and Zimbabwe did just that as they beat Zambia 69-57.

They had a strong start, finishing the first quarter with a 17-11 lead. By the end of the second quarter, they had an 11-point lead (38-27). From there, they controlled the game, eventually claiming the third quarter 15-13 and increasing their lead to 13 points (53-40).

Zambia decided to turn the tables around in the last quarter, which they called theirs 17-16. But Zimbabwe have been more realistic during the game, scoring 17 points from turnovers.

Sharon Chamwarura was instrumental in Zimbabwe’s victory as she scored 21 points, claimed two rebounds and delivered 3 assists. Her teammate Takudzwa Lopez Viki contributed 14 points to Zimbabwe’s success, along with 3 rebounds and 3 assists.

Priscilla Chella led the floor for Zambia with 12 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists. Elizabeth Bwalya also made the headlines with 11 points, 1 rebound and 2 assists.

FIBA