D’Tigers started their quest for a place in the 2023 AfroCan Basketball Championship finals with an L, when they faced Guinea at the Palais des Sports de Treichville, Abijan.

The D’Tigers scored the game’s first points when Agu made Nigeria’s first field goal from deep.

The squad maintained its strong start to the game and led 20-14 at the end of the first period.

Nigeria struggled offensively in the second quarter and missed many open shots.

Despite holding a 10-point lead, the D’Tigers relinquished their advantage, allowing Guinea to take the lead as the first half concluded with a score of 31-36.

In the third quarter, Ogoh Odaudu’s team displayed resilience and fought back, resulting in a tied score of 49-49.

The fourth quarter remained fiercely contested, but in the final minutes of the game, Guinea managed to secure crucial points, ultimately winning 65-62.

The D’Tigers will aim to recover from this defeat when they face Benin Republic in their second qualifying game today.