Angola, Mali set for Afrobasket 2025 showdown in Luanda
Quick Read
They led at halftime 38–37 and stretched their advantage in the third quarter. But Angola’s resilience shone through in the final minutes as they clawed back to seal the narrowest of victories and keep their bid for a record 12th crown alive
African basketball giants Angola will face first-time finalists Mali in the championship game of the 2025 FIBA Afrobasket, after both sides claimed dramatic semi-final victories on Saturday night in Luanda, Angola.
Mali booked their place in the final for the very first time after defeating Senegal 88–80 in a fierce West African derby. Mahamane Coulibaly led the way with 23 points, while Siriman Kanoute and Oumar Ballo added crucial contributions.
The Eagles’ defence and teamwork proved decisive as they ended Senegal’s hopes of a seventh continental title.
In the other semi-final, hosts Angola survived a late scare to edge Cameroon 74–73 in a nail-biting contest at the Kilamba Arena.
With just six seconds left and the score tied at 73–73, the eleven-time champions snatched the winning basket to the delight of their home fans.
Cameroon, who had earlier shocked defending champions Tunisia, pushed Angola all the way.
They led at halftime 38–37 and stretched their advantage in the third quarter. But Angola’s resilience shone through in the final minutes as they clawed back to seal the narrowest of victories and keep their bid for a record 12th crown alive.
The final, scheduled for Sunday at 7:00 p.m. in Luanda, promises to be a clash of history and ambition — Angola seeking to extend their dominance with a twelfth title, while Mali aim to lift the Afrobasket trophy for the very first time
Comments