It was only the second time both nations have met at the continental championship since 2011, but once again Nigeria proved too strong, anchored by a standout performance from Caleb Agada, who poured in a game-high 22 points. Veterans Stan Okoye (13 points) and captain Ike Nwamu (12 points) added valuable scoring support, while Kaodirichi Akobundu made his presence felt with 10 points and defensive energy.
For Madagascar, Sitraka Raharimanantoanina shone with 20 points, ably supported by Kiady Razanamahenina (13 points) and Mathias M’madi (11 points), but their efforts could not prevent a Nigerian surge after halftime.
The contest was fiercely competitive in the opening stages, featuring 14 lead changes in the first half. Both Agada and Raharimanantoanina led their sides in scoring early, and it took a buzzer-beating put-back dunk from Akobundu to give Nigeria a slender 38-37 halftime edge.
The tide turned decisively in the third quarter, when D’Tigers tightened their grip on both ends of the floor. Early free throws from Akobundu and Josh Okogie, a mid-range jumper by Michael Zanna, and an offensive burst from Agada sparked a 10-2 run that gave Nigeria a 48-39 cushion. Though Razanamahenina momentarily halted the slide with a three-point play, the Nigerians closed the quarter firmly in charge, leading 55-46.
From that point, there was little doubt about the outcome. Nigeria’s defense shut down Madagascar’s offense in the fourth quarter, while contributions from the bench kept the scoreboard ticking. The final whistle confirmed an 18-point victory, a statement of intent as D’Tigers look to reassert themselves among Africa’s basketball elite.
Nigeria will now shift focus to their next group fixture, seeking to build momentum and keep their AfroBasket campaign on track.