Mali U18 defeated Madagascar U18 53–44 in the Group Phase of the FIBA U18 AfroBasket 2026. The game was played at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Treichville, Côte d’Ivoire.
Mali made a strong start, holding Madagascar to just one point in the opening quarter while scoring 11 themselves. Madagascar responded dramatically in the second period, outscoring Mali 22–9 to take a 23–20 halftime lead.
Mali regained control after the break. They produced their strongest scoring quarter of the game in the third, putting up 20 points while limiting Madagascar to 11. That gave Mali a 40–34 lead heading into the final period.
The Malian side maintained its advantage in the fourth quarter, scoring 13 points to Madagascar’s 10 and closing out the match 53–44.
Mali finished the group phase unbeaten at 3–0, while Madagascar advanced to the quarter-finals with a 2–1 record.
Standout Performances
- Mali U18: Defeated Madagascar U18 53–44.
- Mouhamed Diamel Sanogo: Led Mali with 12 points.
- Harinosy A’Ranty Rasetriarivony: Led all scorers with 17 points for Madagascar.
- Result: Mali remained unbeaten in the group phase.
Turning Point
The third quarter changed the direction of the game. After Madagascar took a 23–20 halftime lead, Mali responded with a 20–11 third quarter to regain a six-point advantage.
Match Statistics
- Tournament: FIBA U18 AfroBasket 2026
- Category: Men’s U18 Basketball
- Stage: Group Phase
- Group: Group B
- Date: 10 August 2026
- Venue: Palais des Sports de Treichville, Treichville, Côte d’Ivoire
- Winner: Mali U18
- Runner-up: Madagascar U18
- Final Score: 53–44
- Quarter Scores: 11–1, 9–22, 20–11, 13–10