Portugal’s U19 women’s basketball team notched a solid 79-61 victory over Nigeria today. This win came in the third and final group stage game of the World Cup. The match took place in Brno, Czech Republic, and secured Portugal second place in Group B.
This recent triumph follows a landmark 75-52 win over China, which marked Portugal’s first-ever victory at an U19 World Cup. Before that, they faced a tough 88-49 loss to Canada in their opening match. Finishing second in their group means Portugal will now play Israel in the Round of 16. Israel ended up in third place in Group A.
The game started evenly, with both teams trading baskets. But Portugal soon found their rhythm. Maria Andorinho sank a three-pointer with just over two minutes left in the first period. That shot gave Portugal a 14-13 lead they would not give up.
Portugal held a 17-14 advantage after the first quarter. They exploded into the second period with a powerful 14-3 run, extending their lead to 28-17. Nigeria fought back hard, closing the gap to just four points at 28-24. Still, Portugal maintained control, heading into halftime with a comfortable 36-27 lead.
Nigeria showed incredible fight in the second half, twice shrinking Portugal’s lead to just three points. The last time was in the fourth quarter, with 6:17 left on the clock, making it 62-59. But Portugal responded with a strong finish. They outscored Nigeria a decisive 20-2 in the game’s final minutes, sealing the win.
Clara Silva once again stood out for Portugal, delivering another impressive performance. She recorded a double-double with 17 points and 14 rebounds. Silva also added three steals and five blocks, showing her all-around impact.
Other key players also made big contributions. Leonor Peixinho scored 16 points, grabbed six rebounds, and had four steals. Marta Rodrigues added 14 points and five rebounds, while Maria Andorinho chipped in 11 points and eight rebounds. For Nigeria, Idubamo Beggi led the way with 17 points, and Tobenna Nweke added 16.
Portugal finished Group B with five points. Canada, who won bronze at the last World Cup, topped the group with six points. Nigeria finished with four points, and China, who lost 115-52 to Canada today, had three points.
The Round of 16 games are scheduled for Tuesday, with times still to be announced. Portugal will face Israel, who secured third place in Group A. Israel’s final group stage game was a significant 114-40 loss to the United States.
The United States dominated Group A, finishing first with six points from three wins. Hungary came in second with five points, followed by Israel with four points. South Korea placed last in Group A with three points.