Monrovia, Liberia – In a stunning triumph in the last seconds of the current FIBA Zone-3 qualifying event for women’s division in Abidjan, the host Ivory Coast defeated the girls from Liberia.
Ivory Coast made a three-pointer with seconds left to frustrate Liberia, who lost the game 52–50 points, despite everyone’s belief that they had won 50–49 points. In the end, the game was won by the home team.
Liberia, who had not participated in organized basketball for over five years, gave incredible performances in each quarter of the game that made Ivory Coast seem awful.
The Red, White, and Blue girls were a fierce squad that made sure their opponent did not have an easy day on the court, even though the Ivorians showed to be dangerous.
They engaged in combat during the first quarter of the match, but they eventually trailed the home team, Ivory Coast, by three points, losing 16–13. They were aware that if Liberia triumphed, focus would turn to the girls.
Additionally, as the host gained control of the second quarter and opened up a 15–9 advantage, the home audience started to rejoice louder.
Liberia allowed the home team to lead 14-8 in the fourth quarter after recovering in the third quarter to build a commanding 20-7 advantage over Ivory Coast.
The home team’s three baskets to end the game and increase their lead to 52–50 was a turning point in the game. But the Liberian team disagreed with the decision made by the match referees.
The officials disregarded the Liberian side’s objection that the game had ended when the basket was made at the sound of the final whistle.
After the game, the head of Liberia’s delegation, Secretary General Calvin Diggs, declared that the Liberia Basketball Association would make a decision in the coming days.
On Wednesday, July 31, Liberia’s inaugural game as a male-only team ended in a loss against Ghana.
Playing at the Palais des Sports de Treichville gym, the Ghanaian boys triumphed 66-54 over the Liberian boys.
Ghana showed their advantage early on in the game by keeping their Liberian opponent from scoring any points during the first three quarters.
Despite playing better in the second quarter, the inexperienced Lonestar was unable to cut the margin, allowing Ghana to build a commanding 40–31 lead.
By the end of the third quarter, Ghana had established a comfortable 53-38 point advantage.
The fourth and final quarter was all Liberia had to lose, but the Ghanaians came out on top 64-56, not quite living up to the expectations.
The Ghanaian boys’ win brings them one step closer to their objective of qualifying for the Under-18 World Cup through the African qualifications.
Reported by: Sylvester Tamba
Contact: +231776687195
