On October 7, 2025, Nigeria’s D’Tigress were grouped with France, Germany, Korea, Colombia, and the Philippines for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup qualifiers in Lyon-Villeurbanne, France.
Global Qualifying Stage
The draw, held in Mies, Switzerland, sets the stage for the qualifiers from March 11-17, 2026. Twenty-four teams across four cities, Wuhan, Lyon, San Juan, and Istanbul, aim for 16 World Cup spots.
Draw Ceremony Details
German player Marie Guelich and former French captain Endy Miyem conducted the draw.
FIBA’s Andreas Zagklis and federation representatives attended, shaping the D’Tigress qualifiers path to Berlin 2026.
Nigeria’s Strong Position
D’Tigress secured their World Cup finals spot by winning the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket.
Alongside Mali, Senegal, and South Sudan, they represent Africa in the D’Tigress qualifiers.
Expanded Tournament Format
FIBA expanded the 2026 World Cup to 16 teams, encouraging emerging nations.
The top three teams from each qualifying group, plus continental champions and host Germany, advance.
Tough Group Challenges
In Lyon, D’Tigress face host France, a European giant, and Germany. Korea, Colombia, and the Philippines complete the group, all competing for Berlin’s D’Tigress qualifiers spots.
Nigeria’s World Cup History
This marks D’Tigress’ third World Cup appearance, following 2006 and a historic eighth-place finish in 2018.
The D’Tigress qualifiers aim to build on this African milestone.
Pre-Qualifying Success
The qualifying journey began in August 2024 with tournaments in Kigali and Mexico City. Hungary and Czech Republic won, earning their places in the 2026 D’Tigress qualifiers.
Continental Champions
As AfroBasket champions, D’Tigress join Australia, Belgium, and the USA as continental winners. This status boosts confidence for the D’Tigress qualifiers, aiming for global success.
Berlin World Cup Awaits
The 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup runs September 4-13 in Berlin. D’Tigress seek to extend their continental dominance, leveraging their D’Tigress qualifiers performance.
Path to Glory
With a perfect AfroBasket run, D’Tigress enter Lyon with momentum. Facing strong opponents, their preparation and teamwork will be key in the D’Tigress qualifiers for 2026.
