The 2025 FIBA AfroBasket champion, Angola, started their campaign in fashionable style after defeating the silverbacks of Uganda 90-68 in the opening match of this FIBA World Cup Qualifier. The African powerhouse were boosted by the MVP, Childe Dundao, who had 15 points and a whopping 11 assists.
Last Updated on
February 27, 2026
Angola and Uganda faced off on the opening night of the World Cup Qualifiers in Egypt at the Borg Elarab Arena. Angola had the odds in their favour going into this encounter, and they delivered in the most stylish fashion. Angola quickly got off to a 17-0 start.
They were firing on all cylinders, forcing Uganda into bad shots or unforced turnovers. This run was led by Selton Miguel and Childe Dundao, who could not miss while making stops and dishing dimes.
Fayed Baale broke the run by converting a three-pointer for Uganda after going scoreless for nearly four minutes. Angola then began their rotations, which slowed the momentum but kept them comfortably ahead, so it did little to affect them. Deng Geu then scored a lay-up to cut the deficit for the silverbacks.
However, this was quickly erased when Islando Miguel drained a three-pointer for Angola. Angola remained in the driving seat, cruising to the end of the quarter up 14 points at 27-13.
Nike Sibande started the second quarter for Uganda with an emphatic dunk, catching the Angolans off guard. The play was executed flawlessly. Islando Manuel answered in his characteristic style—posting up his defender and scoring with a hook shot before attempting another three-pointer. Uganda responded with their own shots, as Peter Obleng hit a three, followed by Joel Kayira's alley-oop finish.
After a dry spell, Selton Miguel ended the scoring drought with a quick layup, igniting his teammates' energy as Abou Gakou set up a perfect three-pointer. Angola then extended their 19-point lead. Deng Geu responded with a solo run to boost team morale.
Yet, Angola demonstrated their shooting skill with several three-pointers. Kevin Kokila completed his three-point play by driving to the basket and scoring, although he was fouled in the process. Angola remained aggressive until the final whistle, finishing the half with a 45-27 lead.
Selton Miguel began the quarter aggressively, showcasing all his skills. Uganda had no response to the Angolan team, falling behind by 30 points after Selton Miguel's quick break layup. Ugandan captain Robinson Opong, who struggled with his shooting during the game, hit a three-pointer to put his team on the scoreboard.
Childe Dundao remained a constant threat on defence and a playmaker on offence. He was passing effectively to teammates and making his free throws.
Deng Geu kept searching for that moment to energise the team, but it didn't materialise. The third quarter was marked by missed opportunities and unforced turnovers, allowing Angola to maintain a comfortable lead.
Despite trailing by 32 points, Uganda kept fighting because there are two more games ahead, and they need to stay resilient. So why not start now? Despite their effort, they went into halftime trailing Angola 73-46.
Uganda showed resolve as they continued to work towards cutting the deficit. Nike Sibande started strong with multiple made shots. However, Angola made the correct decisions and exploited their defence.
With time running out, Uganda chose to play more physically to slow the pace and focus on executing their plays. Ultimately, the reigning African champions took full control of the game, winning 90-68.
Deng Geu and Nike Sibanda combined for 32 points for Uganda but couldn't secure the win. Selton Miguel was the top scorer with 19 points as Angola prepared for their upcoming game. Kevin Kokila achieved a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds.
The most notable performance was by AfroBasket MVP Chile Dundae, who put up 15 points and 11 assists. Known for his tough defence and shooting, Chile Dundae demonstrated his skills as a traditional point guard by making all his plays.
[Photography Courtesy of FIBA]
