Rwanda will face either Uganda’s Gazelles or DR Congo in the quarter finals of the FIBA Women’s Afrobasket going on in Kigali.
The pair lock horns ahead of Wednesday night (9pm), August 1, in a classification round showdown which will decide who advances to the final eight.
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In terms of statistics, Uganda has secured more rebounds (58) than DR Congo who managed 54. Additionally, Uganda garnered 18.5 points from turnovers, 15.5 fast break points and 33 points in the paint compared to DR Congo’s 15 points accumulated from turnovers, 21 fast break points, and 32 points in the paint.
The Gazelles, who finished second in Group C with a 1-1 record, have shown promise with a significant 85-83 win against 11-time champions Senegal, bouncing back from a 66-80 loss to Mali.
Head coach Alberto Antuna acknowledges the challenge that lies ahead, as DR Congo boasts physicality and experience. To overcome their formidable opponents, the Gazelles must focus on playing as a united team and establishing their identity on the court.
Jannon Otto has been a standout performer for Uganda, tallying 40 points in the tournament so far, with impressive contributions from Flavia Oketcho, Claire Lamunu, and Jane Asinde.
However, Asinde's propensity for early fouls may pose a concern. In both the opener against Mali and the match against Senegal, she had already picked up four fouls before the second half, and she continued to play the entire last quarter while on four fouls.
DR Congo, with a rich basketball history, enters the match as a formidable force. Their 15th appearance at the Afrobasket demonstrates their consistent presence in the tournament, with three championship victories in 1983, 1986 and 1994.
During this ongoing tournament, the Leopards finished at the bottom of Group D, but they believe they were pitted against tougher opponents in defending champions Nigeria and two-time champions Egypt. While they suffered a 69-35 defeat against Nigeria, they showed some improvement in the second game against Pharaohs despite falling to a 78-89 loss.
Keep an eye on Cecile Nyoka and Mariana Muadi, who have been averaging 11 and 10 points respectively, as they emerge as the standout players for DR Congo.
Tuesday's clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eyeing a spot in the Quarterfinals. The Gazelles will need to capitalize on their strengths and execute a strategy to topple DR Congo's experienced lineup.
While Guinea set a quarter-final date with Mali after a narrow 70-69 victory over Angola in Tuesday’s lunchtime clash, Egypt take on Senegal in another quarter final classification round fixture whose winner will face Cameroon.
Mozambique also battle for the quarterfinal spot with Côte d'Ivoire at 6pm in a clash that will decide who faces Nigeria in the final eight.