Énergie battled back from an eight-point halftime deficit to defeat FBA 63–56 in a gripping Women’s Basketball League Africa qualifier in Abidjan, fuelled by elite defence, clutch scoring and Nassarath Arouna’s standout performance as both teams fight for qualification.
Last Updated on
November 22, 2025
In a fiercely contested Group B showdown of the FIBA Women's Basketball League Africa 2025 Qualifiers, Énergie emerged victorious over FBA with a hard-earned 63–56 win. The match, staged at the vibrant Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, delivered a captivating display of grit, defensive discipline and competitive urgency as both teams fought to strengthen their positions in the qualifying race.
From the opening tip, it was evident that defence would define the tempo. Énergie BBC struck first, edging out a narrow 18–16 lead to close the first quarter. Their early success relied on tight perimeter pressure and composed ball movement. But FBA, refusing to trail for long, shifted momentum dramatically in the second quarter. With heightened energy and improved offensive execution, the Togolese side outscored Énergie 22–12, entering halftime with a well-earned eight-point cushion at 38–30.
However, the game's story was yet to unfold. Returning from the break with renewed determination, Énergie staged a remarkable turnaround in the third quarter. Their defensive presence intensified, suffocating FBA's rhythm and forcing rushed possessions. Riding this defensive surge, Énergie produced a commanding 16–5 run, wiping away the deficit and sending the game into its final stretch finely poised. By the time the fourth quarter began, the contest had transformed into a pressure-filled battle of execution.
In the decisive final frame, Énergie remained composed while FBA showed signs of fading. With better ball movement, sharper shot selection and steadier defensive rotations, the Beninese team carved out a 17–13 advantage, sealing the 63–56 triumph. It was a win rooted in resilience, one built on composure after halftime adversity and the ability to capitalise on FBA's lapses.
The statistical breakdown further clarifies the outcome. Énergie BBC shot 32.6% from two-point range, outperforming FBA's 20.8% in the same category. From beyond the arc, Énergie maintained an edge with a 30.5% success rate compared to FBA's 26.9%. Perhaps the most decisive difference came at the free-throw line: Énergie's 85.7% accuracy starkly contrasted with FBA's struggling 43.8%. In a game where scoring runs swung momentum back and forth, FBA's inefficiency at the line ultimately undercut their intense moments, particularly their explosive second quarter.
Individually, Nassarath Arouna shone brightest for Énergie. Her 17 points proved essential to her team's comeback and late-game execution. For FBA, Djeneba Sangare delivered an impressive 19-point performance, but her offensive heroics were not enough to overcome the team's second-half decline.
Beyond the numbers, the atmosphere in Treichville magnified the encounter's impact. Fans filled the arena with energy, fueling a competitive environment worthy of continental qualification stakes. For players, coaches and supporters alike, the game represented more than a group-stage meeting; it was a crucial step toward securing a place among Africa's elite women's clubs.
Looking ahead, Énergie BBC will seek to build on this momentum, carrying forward the defensive fortitude and mental toughness that sparked their comeback. For FBA, the narrow margin suggests competitiveness, but improvements are essential. Sharpening free-throw consistency and stabilising third-quarter performances will be critical if they intend to advance.
Ultimately, Énergie's victory reflected determination, tactical discipline and timely execution, while FBA's defeat offered both lessons and encouragement. The 63–56 scoreline captured a tale of two halves and a defining moment in both clubs' pursuit of Women's Basketball League Africa qualification glory.
[Photography Courtesy of FIBA/WBLA]
