Mali overpowers Mozambique 72-69 in a double-overtime thriller – FIBA Africa Championship
On Sunday night, Mali overcame a tough challenge from Mozambique in an exhilarating contest that went till the second overtime to carve out a 72-69 point victory in Palais des Sports Antananarivo, Madagascar. In doing so, Mali
secured their second win in Group-A of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men.
The game started on an even note as Mozambique led Mali 14-12 at the end of the first quarter. Mali thrust back in the second quarter and outperformed Mozambican side with a 17-6 run to take a 29-20 points lead, as the teams went
into the locker room at the close of the first half.
Team Mozambique which looked staggered with Mali’s burst in the second period, didn’t give up and charged back furiously in the third quarter. They outscored Mali 27-15 and made it a three point game at the end of the third frame.
Mozambique led Mali by 44-47 points heading into the fourth quarter. Mozambique were leading till the final few minutes of the quarter, but the Malians made the rush and tied the scores at 59 just before the quarter was about to
end. This late effort by team Mali pushed the game into the first overtime.
The deadlock continued in the first extra time as both teams tallied six points each to enter into the second extra-time. Mozambique got the perfect start in the second overtime as Matos hit a three-pointer and gave them a 68-65
advantage. However, Malians creped in slowly and kept Mozambique in check.
Mali first tied the scores with a Cheick Soumaoro two point shot and then Modibo Niakate hit the go ahead shot from the free throw line. The surge was followed by a 7-4 point phase as Mali hung tough to draw out the three point
win.
Guard Waly Coulibaly led the Malian squad with 15 points, three rebounds and three assists. Coulibaly was outstanding from the free-throw line, hitting four out of four during his 41 minutes stay on the court. Mohamed Tangara also
chipped in with 14 points, nine rebounds and four steals while Niakate had 12 points and two rebounds for his side.
Custodio Muchate was the leading scorer for Mozambique. He poured in game-high 21 points along with 10 rebounds, one assist and three steals. Augusto Matos also racked up 15 points and grabbed four rebounds for Mozambique.
Tags: