CRBT dominated from start to finish, defeating CFG 74–51 in Bamako’s Palais des Sports. With sharp shooting, relentless defence, and a commanding 26-point halftime lead, the Malian side set the tone early, establishing themselves as strong contenders in Road to BAL 2026.
Last Updated on
October 20, 2025
The last game of the Road to BAL 2026 Group A tipped off with a statement performance from the host, Centre de Référence de Basketball de Tombouctou (CRBT). In front of a lively crowd at Bamako’s Palais des Sports, Salamatou Maiga, the Malian side dismantled Centre Fédéral de Guinée (CFG) 74–51, using an early offensive surge and suffocating defence to stamp their authority on the contest.
From the opening tip, CRBT left no doubt about their intentions. Their crisp ball movement, defensive intensity, and composure set the tone in a first quarter that ended 21–12 in favour of the visitors. While CFG tried to respond with energy and quick ball rotations, they struggled to find open looks and turned the ball over in key moments. By halftime, the game had already tilted heavily toward CRBT, up 47–21 after a dominant 26–9 second quarter that effectively broke the game open.
CRBT’s dominance wasn’t just about offence; it was about total control. They led for 34 of the game’s 40 minutes, allowing CFG a lead for only two. The most significant margin ballooned to 29 points, and the hosts never appeared threatened. Every time CFG tried to build momentum, CRBT’s disciplined rotations and defensive traps slammed the door shut.
For CFG, there were a few bright spots, but Mamadou Kaba stood out with his hustle and efficiency. He registered a team-high 17 in efficiency, showing flashes of skill and leadership despite his team’s offensive struggles. Still, basketball is a team sport, and CFG couldn’t generate enough scoring support around him. Their offensive sets looked static, and without consistent perimeter shooting, the Guinean side found themselves trapped inside a defensive web spun perfectly by CRBT.
On the other end, CRBT played with balance and patience. Their offensive rhythm came from spreading the floor, driving to collapse the defence, and finding the open man on kick-outs, with Bamba Diallo dropping 26 points. Every possession felt deliberate, every defensive switch, calculated. It was a veteran-level performance from a team determined to make a statement in Group A.
The third quarter saw CFG attempt to fight back, pressing higher on defence and looking to speed up the pace. But CRBT matched their energy blow for blow, maintaining composure under pressure. Even as the intensity dipped slightly in the final frame, an 11–11 draw in the fourth quarter, the outcome was never in doubt. CRBT coasted home comfortably, sealing the 74–51 win and announcing themselves as legitimate contenders on the Road to BAL.
For CRBT, this wasn’t just a victory; it was a declaration. Their ability to dictate tempo, defend cohesively, and share offensive responsibility suggests they’re built for the grind of this qualifying campaign despite the fall against Al Ahly Benghazi. With an Elite 16 berth in their sights, the Tombouctou-based club looks every bit the disciplined, hungry unit needed to survive in this competition.
For CFG, this defeat is a harsh reality check. Their effort was there, but execution and shot selection weren’t. The team must find a way to generate consistent perimeter scoring, sharpen their defensive rotations, and avoid digging early deficits. Their next outing will test not only their skills but their mental resilience.
As the dust settles on Bamako’s hardwood, one truth stands clear: CRBT have set the tone for Group A. For CFG, the climb just got steeper, but for CRBT, the road to BAL 2026 has begun with authority and intent.
[Photography Courtesy of FIBA/Road to BAL]
